TEMPE, Ariz. — The 2023 campaign for the Arizona Cardinals was a disappointing one, yet a season in which optimism was built for next year and beyond.
"Fight is the identity of this entire team," Rookie offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr., said. "The season didn't go how we wanted it to go but every game was a fight until the last quarter of each game."
The Cardinals finished the season 4-13 for the second straight year but 2023 is left behind knowing a positive culture is being built the right way.
"I am starting to see myself grow each game," Johnson Jr. said. "Even in times where I am not playing my absolute best ball I can use that opportunity to learn and as long as I can learn from that, then I have fun with the game."
The players cleaned out their lockers today, marking the end of the season. A season in which adversity was faced head-on and won by rookie wide receiver Michael Wilson.
Wilson was in and out of the lineup various weeks throughout the season due to injuries, but the wideout was able to finish the year strong by making plays on the field.
Wilson gathered in all six targets for 95 yards during Sunday's 21-20 loss to the Seahawks. The rookie's yardage total marked a career-best for the 2023 third-round pick, but more promising for the future was the fact he seemed to be on the same page with quarterback Kyler Murray.
"It's a time when a lot of people in the locker room can learn about you," Wilson said. "I think people's true character comes out when they battle through difficult times. I was consistent in my personality and process and I had to stay at it and I am happy results finally showed up the last couple of weeks."
Arizona (4-13) had a 3-5 record after Murray returned at midseason following an 11-month layoff due to an ACL tear in his right knee. His solid play in his return gives the Cardinals hope that next season will be better.
Regardless of the position, all 53 men on the roster are optimistic that 2024 will reap the benefits sewn this season despite a losing record. The offseason may start now, although the work is just beginning.
"All I can think about is what I can do to be in the best position possible to work on my body, my strength, my nutrition so we are not in the same position as next year," Johnson Jr said.
The next date to circle on your calendar will be the NFL Draft on April, 25 where the Cardinals hold the fourth overall selection.
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