Cardinals’ Michael Bidwill on Kyler Murray talk: ‘Just noise from the outside’

The first episode of Arizona Cardinals Flight Plan 2022 dropped Tuesday and gave fans a deep dive into some of the drama surrounding the team this offseason.

Fans around the Valley are well aware of the details surrounding the front office and quarterback Kyler Murray, who wants a contract extension.

Owner Michael Bidwill opened the episode by answering the question on everyone’s mind.

“Firstly, we all stayed in communication with Kyler and him with us. That never stopped us, it truly was just noise from the outside.” Bidwill said in Episode 1.

“Unfortunately it got louder and louder at different points for different reasons, but it never stopped us from talking to each other and having very good, constructive conversations with how we’re going to get better as an organization and him to continue to grow as a player. I am excited for our future.”

Murray’s agent sent a contract proposal in March which has since been rescinded as other quarterbacks around the league are striking deals.

Arizona started voluntary workouts on Tuesday but Murray was not in attendance.

Although the Cardinals did not have a similar splashy offseason like 2021, Bidwill is confident in general manager Steve Keim.

“If you look at the last five seasons, about two-thirds of the free agents that went to a different team and were paid more than $10 million, played less than 75% playtime,” Bidwill said.

“Steve (Keim) has had great success signing players that people have really forgotten about. James Conner was signed in (April) of last year. Being aggressive also means being patient and taking the risk that great players will be out there.”

With the departure of running back Chase Edmonds, Conner will take over as the primary rusher for Arizona this year.

The Cardinals’ major moves this offseason include re-signing tight end Zach Ertz to a three-year deal, re-signing quarterback Colt McCoy, tight end Maxx Williams as well as signing offensive lineman Will Hernandez.