Kyler Murray Reveals A.J. Green Will Have Major Role in Offense

The Arizona Cardinals are trying to build a championship contender around Kyler Murray, and one of the additions this offseason came in the form of Pro-Bowl receiver A.J. Green. 

Green, who missed all of 2019 with an injury, had an underwhelming 2020 season, but he has impressed Murray this offseason. 

"I expect A.J. to have a big year," Murray said. "I know a lot of people are sleeping on him. I know a lot of things have been said about him maybe not being able to do it anymore. … I'm glad he's on the team."

Green had just 47 catches for 523 yards and two touchdowns despite playing all 16 games last year, but he may find more success in an Arizona offense that already features DeAndre Hopkins and Christian Kirk. 

If Murray thinks Green is going to have a big year, it likely means that he will see his fair share of targets this season.

WynnBET has given the Cardinals a projected win total of 8.5 for the 2021 season, with the under (-150) favoring the over (+120). Playing in a tough NFC West, Arizona actually has the worst odds to win the division at +500. 

It’s not a great sign for the Cardinals, but if Green can add another dynamic to their offense, they may be able to keep up with the Los Angeles Rams, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers in the division. 

"He's been really impressive, when you see him on the field with that type of size and that type of movement skills," head coach Kliff Kingsbury said of Green. "Very conscientious player. He's picking it up quickly. Consummate professional. Couldn't say enough good things about him. Really excited that he's here. He brings a lot to that receiving room." 

Green had over 1,000 receiving yards in six of his first seven professional seasons, but injuries have derailed his career the past few years. If he can be healthy in 2021, Green could have a resurgent year with a quarterback like Murray delivering him the ball.