Kyler Murray's 2025 Fantasy Outlook: Increased Rushing & Impact

Kyler Murray's Intent to Run More

• 💬 Kyler Murray expressed his desire to run the ball more in 2025, viewing it as a significant weapon against defenses.
• 🧠 He noted that top quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen make plays when things break down, emphasizing the importance of scrambling and making people pay.

Analyzing Past Rushing Performance

• 📊 Last year, Murray had a career-low 4.6 rush attempts per game, receiving a "C++" grade for his fantasy performance, which was not a "home run pick."
• 📉 He also recorded career lows in red zone rushes (17%) and goal-to-go rushes (7%), indicating a significant reduction in high-value rushing opportunities.
• ✅ Despite reduced volume, Murray was highly effective when he did run, averaging a career-high 7.3 yards per carry.

Reasons for Reduced Rushing Volume

• ⚠️ A primary factor was the Cardinals' concern about Murray's knee injury, leading them to be overly protective of his health.
• 🏈 The team also placed significant trust in James Conner, particularly in goal-line situations, believing he would score when given the ball close to the end zone.

Future Outlook and Team Strategy

• 🌱 Murray reportedly feels 100% healthy, which is expected to contribute to his increased rushing in the upcoming season.
• 🚀 Sources within the Arizona Cardinals indicate a clear emphasis on designed runs for Kyler Murray to address a missing piece from their offense last year.

Other Fantasy Football Notes

• 🎯 22 Atwell was discussed as a potential last-round draft pick or waiver wire target in deeper leagues, despite concerns about his blocking ability and the presence of Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
• 👏 Julio Jones announced his retirement, celebrated as a legend with a 300-yard game, seven Pro Bowls, two All-Pro selections, and ranking fifth in NFL history for receiving yards.