Arizona Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury wants quarterback Kyler Murray to understand one thing about announcing players: “It’s f***ing not easy.”
Kingsbury gave Murray a chance to pay in practice and graded Murray as a playmaker. The verdict: Kingsbury wouldn’t want to play for Murray.
As Kingsbury explained, he let Murray make the calls about the backup quarterbacks on Saturday. Kingsbury made the decision so Murray could experience what it’s like to call during a game. Kingsbury then joked that he wouldn’t want to play for Murray because Murray kept talking to the quarterbacks until they threw the ball.
Those quotes can be read maliciously, but Kingsbury was smiling and joking will get his thoughts across, according to Cardinals writer Darren Urban. Kingsbury said Murray did a good job, but he probably won’t call off the play again during practice.
Kyler Murray and Kliff Kingsbury are facing a critical season together
It’s important that Kingsbury and Murray are on the same page before the 2022 NFL season. Both men face a critical season together. Even though Murray signed a mega-deal with the Cardinals, he faces pressure to live up to it after another second-half fade and a disappointing playoff performance.
Kingsbury also carries some responsibility in the team’s struggles in the second half. The Cardinals opened the 2021 NFL season 7-0 before going 4-6 to finish. Another poor performance late in the season or in the playoffs could put Kingsbury out of business.
The team should be tested immediately. The Cardinals open the season against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 1. Arizona also plays in one of the toughest divisions in the NFL and will face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 3.
These aren’t must-win games, but they could provide insight into whether Murray and the Cardinals take a step forward in 2022.
Kliff Kingsbury and Kyler Murray are facing a critical season with the Cardinals. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
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