As the Arizona Cardinals gear up for the 2025 season, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on the standout performances and pivotal moments of the 2024 season. The offseason brings with it the opportunity to celebrate the achievements of players who rose to the occasion, exceeded expectations, and made their mark on the team. In this analysis, we’ll delve into player awards, highlight some superlative performances, and spotlight the team’s most improved players.
Spotlight on 2024: Player Performances Recognized
On our recent podcast, we dived into a spirited discussion about the Cardinals’ player awards and superlatives for the season. Translating those conversations into written form, let’s shine a light on the individuals who truly stepped up. From defensive standouts to surprising underdog stories, there’s plenty to celebrate. Here’s a closer look at the team’s most improved players for 2024 and our picks for the Cardinals’ defensive player of the year.
Cardinals’ Most Improved Player for 2024
Jess Root’s Pick: Linebacker Jesse Luketa
Jesse Luketa’s 2024 season was nothing short of remarkable. A name that might not have turned many heads initially, Luketa’s journey from being an afterthought on the roster to a key contributor is the kind of story fans love. At the start of the season, Luketa occupied a spot at the bottom of the depth chart among outside linebackers. While he had already proven himself as a reliable special teams player and a beloved presence in the locker room, few anticipated the breakout year he was about to have.
When Dennis Gardeck went down with a season-ending ACL tear, the door opened for Luketa, and he seized the moment. Elevated to the top of the depth chart, he demonstrated his reliability against the run, especially in setting the edge. But it didn’t stop there. Luketa became a surprisingly effective pass rusher, racking up sacks in three consecutive games in November — the first sacks of his NFL career. By season’s end, he had firmly established himself as a rotational player capable of contributing on all three downs. It’s a testament to his perseverance and hard work that he transformed from a depth piece to a vital part of the Cardinals’ defense.
Howard Balzer’s Pick: Cornerback Garrett Williams
When it comes to Garrett Williams, improvement wasn’t just expected — it was almost inevitable. The talented cornerback had already showcased his potential as a third-round draft pick in 2023. However, his rookie year was largely spent on the sidelines as he recovered from a torn ACL sustained during his collegiate days at Syracuse. Activated from the non-football injury list on October 21, 2023, Williams only managed to log 360 defensive snaps that season.
Fast forward to 2024, and the second-year cornerback didn’t just meet expectations; he shattered them. Williams became a force to be reckoned with, starting 11 of the 16 games he was active and primarily operating in the slot. His performance earned him seven All-Pro votes, ranking fifth among players in his position league-wide. Over the course of 781 defensive snaps (76% of the team’s total), Williams racked up 58 tackles, including 40 solo efforts. He also snagged two interceptions, defended nine passes, and forced a fumble, solidifying his status as one of the team’s defensive cornerstones.
Cardinals Defensive Player of the Year: Who Takes the Crown?
When discussing defensive excellence in 2024, two players come to mind for their standout contributions. Both Luketa and Williams, mentioned above, are worthy of recognition. However, the broader discussion around defensive dominance includes other candidates who anchored the team and led by example.
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Garrett Williams’ Stellar Season: It’s hard to overstate the impact Williams had in his second season. Beyond the stats, his instincts and ability to read plays made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. His knack for making critical plays at pivotal moments further cemented his reputation as a rising star.
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Jesse Luketa’s Unexpected Rise: While Luketa’s story is one of seizing opportunities, his on-field impact cannot be overlooked. His sacks and ability to contain the run were critical in several close games, proving his value to the team’s defensive strategy.
Key Takeaways from 2024
The 2024 season was a year of growth, resilience, and unexpected heroes for the Arizona Cardinals. As the team looks to build on this foundation heading into 2025, there are several exciting elements to keep in mind:
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Emergence of Young Talent: Players like Garrett Williams and Jesse Luketa are prime examples of the team’s ability to develop and nurture talent. Their success stories underscore the importance of depth and adaptability in the NFL.
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Overcoming Adversity: Injuries to key players like Dennis Gardeck could have derailed the season, but the Cardinals’ ability to rally and find contributors in unlikely places speaks volumes about the team’s resilience.
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Looking Ahead: With players like Luketa and Williams continuing to develop, the Cardinals have a strong foundation to build on for 2025. The team’s ability to identify and maximize potential will be crucial as they aim for greater success.
Wrapping Up
The offseason is a time for reflection, but it’s also a chance to anticipate what’s next. For the Arizona Cardinals, the 2024 season was filled with moments that showcased the team’s depth and determination. Whether it’s celebrating the rise of Jesse Luketa, the steady improvement of Garrett Williams, or recognizing the efforts of the entire defensive unit, there’s no shortage of reasons to be excited about the future. Here’s to hoping the Cardinals carry this momentum into 2025 and beyond!
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