Cardinals' playoffs are canceled but should QB Kyler Murray care?

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray hasn’t played since Oct. 5 when his team fell 22-21 to the Tennessee Titans. Murray was mocked for his shortcomings and the teams 2-3 start but in his absence things haven’t really improved. The Cardinals now have a season record of 3-9, and with Murray out of the line up Cardinals’ fans haven’t really proposed a hypothesis on why the team has continued to struggle. Especially when so many assumed that a move away from Murray would solve problems.

Whether Murray admits it or not, there’s a simmering feeling of under appreciation brewing within his soul. The Cardinals were 8-9 last season and they are unlikely to eclipse eight wins this season at their current pace. Injuries have riddled the team with running backs Trey Benson and James Conner out of the lineup but the fact of the matter is that back up quarterback Jacoby Brissett isn’t a more competent QB1 than Murray. Brissett may pass the eye-test and appear to be more adequate on the basis of his height and mechanics, but the big play ability and infused energy Murray brought to the offense is clearly a missing component.

So what's next? Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon can't possibly sit on a hotter seat, offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is likely to be dismissed if Gannon is terminated and while Murray is contractually married to the franchise his future morale is a luring question mark.

With Murray still not scheduled to return versus the Los Angeles Rams in week 14, Brissett will suit up and try to pull out an upset. However, if the Cardinals lose again, apologetic thoughts may resurface for Murray. Ultimately, with the Cardinals already out of playoff contention, reinserting Murray into the starting lineup isn't a thought of vanity but should be considered as an option especially to rebuild trust in him heading into next season.

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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: Cardinals' playoffs are canceled but should QB Kyler Murray care?