Cardinals QB Kyler Murray has ‘made crazy strides,’ hopeful to play vs. Panthers

We likely won’t have an idea as to whether or not Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray will play Sunday against the Carolina Panthers.

He is, however, trending in the right direction as he works to get back from an ankle sprain, with the goal being a Week 10 return.

“That’s what I’m hoping for,” Murray said Wednesday. “Obviously day-to-day right now, but I think I made crazy strides as far as in positive direction since it happened. I’m looking forward to it, like I said, just day to day, just gonna keep working it out.”

It’s uncharted territory for Murray, who had yet to miss a start before Sunday’s win since he was drafted back in 2019 (40 games). It was definitely a different situation for the signal-caller as he watched from the sideline in street clothes while backup Colt McCoy led the offense seamlessly over the San Francisco 49ers.

Murray can count on one hand how many games he has missed over his entire football career. It’s something he prides himself on. So when he is forced to sit back, that stagnant feeling sets in, despite it being for his own good at this point in the year.

“I wouldn’t say ‘recharged,’” Murray said when asked if he felt rested after the extra downtime. “I don’t like missing any time. As soon as the season starts, you’re already kind of getting beat up.

“If you get an injury, plus that, you’re just kind of behind the eightball a little bit. I don’t think there was any recharging for me. Mentally, it’s not fun either — not being able to be yourself and play.”

With the Cardinals not practicing Wednesday, Murray will have two days to prove he is healthy enough to play and protect himself. If not, it’ll be another tally to add onto his one hand of missed games.

EXTRA POINT

– Murray on Christian Kirk’s pass in Sunday’s win over the 49ers:

“I thought it was great. It could have been a little bit better, and it would have been a touchdown. I thought it was a good ball.”

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