There should be no surprise to see which three players PFF named as the Cardinals’ best.
The Arizona Cardinals have improved their roster this offseason, especially defensively. But their three best players should be no surprise.
PFF named the three best players for every team and the Cardinals’ top trio are the following players:
QB Kyler MurrayTE Trey McBrideBudda Baker
McBride took a major leap in 2024, ascending into the top tier of NFL tight ends. His 89.8 receiving grade ranked second among all tight ends, trailing only George Kittle. Murray delivered his closest approximation yet to his peak form, posting a 4.7% big-time throw rate, his highest since 2021. Baker also bounced back in 2024, recording a career-best 77.8 overall grade and a 74.7 coverage grade.
One could argue that running back James Conner should be in the top three. The offense in 2024 was often Conner and McBride.
Coming into 2025, they have some candidates to bump one or more players from this trio. Receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. would be a welcome addition. So would cornerback Garrett Williams or any of the big new defensive additions like outside linebacker Josh Sweat or defensive lineman Dalvin Tomlinson.
But Murray needs to stay on that list. If he isn’t one of the top three players, it probably means this team isn’t good enough to compete.
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire’s Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.