Despite their 1-2 record in the preseason, the Arizona Cardinals showed a number of positives. Most importantly, the Cardinals showed that should Kyler Murray miss time this season, they have the depth to help fill that hole at QB. However, following his contract extension this season, Arizona is certainly hoping Murray has the durability for a 17-game season.
QB 2: Colt McCoy
University of Texas legend Colt McCoy didn’t play in the Cardinals’ preseason games due to lingering arm soreness from training camp. However, Cardinals head coach Kliff Kingsbury expects McCoy to be available in week one if needed.
Despite not playing in the preseason, McCoy has already proven himself capable of stepping into the starting spot. After an ankle injury sidelined starter Kyler Murray, McCoy finished 2-1 as a starter with key wins against the Seahawks and 49ers. While he certainly won’t put up Kyler Murray-like stats with his legs, McCoy is a capable game manager who can play winning football.
The Battle for QB 3: Trace McSorley & Jarrett Guarantano
Colt McCoy’s status as the primary backup seems set in stone, however, the battle for the third spot is heating up. Both Trace McSorley and Jarrett Guarantano made strong arguments with their play for why they deserve the spot.
McSorley, the Penn State alum, entered the competition with a slight advantage as QB 3 on the depth chart. The third-year quarterback started all three preseason games for the Cardinals and put together an impressive resume. McSorley finished with 536 yards and only one passing touchdown. Although his stats don’t jump off the page, his ability to extend a drive and flashy play captured the eyes of many.
Dime on the run from @McSorley_IX 🎯
📺: #BALvsAZ on FOX
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/YdLdMGKZy4 pic.twitter.com/nbVXY1AuN1— NFL (@NFL) August 22, 2022
Rookie Jarrett Guarantano made the biggest leap with his play. The former Tennessee Volunteer finished the preseason with 167 yards and three touchdowns. Guarantano shocked many with his ability to deliver the ball where only his receivers could get it. Gurantano also showed a connection with receiver Andy Isabella who caught a 74-yard pass in their first snap together. Isabella is expected to take on a bigger role for the Cardinals following the departure of Christian Kirk and the suspension of DeAndre Hopkins.
Jarrett Guarantano connects with Jontre Kirklin for a 15-yard touchdown 🙌
Cards are now within 7!pic.twitter.com/ObsxMXrxU9
— Cardinals Nation (@CardsNationCP) August 22, 2022
The Andy Isabella dream lives on pic.twitter.com/umnLY3pOMT
— NFL Beat Writers (@32BeatWriters) August 28, 2022
It’s uncertain which way Kliff Kingsburryis leaning now. Regardless of who wins the job, it’s likely the other will be signed to the practice squad as a retainer. In a perfect world, Kyler Murray plays all 17 games and leads the Cardinals to their first playoff win since 2017. However, if Murray goes down, Arizona has a number of capable options to win a few games.
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