GLENDALE – Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter is currently fighting in a competitive running back race for a roster spot. The four-year pro has illustrated on the field his speed and elusiveness that Arizona has given him a chance these past two seasons. However, his greatness strength is his loyatly to teammates, as Carter spoke with the media on Thursday about his hobbies with video games and took a moment to defend his starting quarterback Kyler Murray with some expletives.
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Arizona Cardinals running back Michael Carter (22) breaks out of the backfield against the Kansas City Chiefs during their preseason game at State Farm Stadium on Aug. 9, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Cardinals’ Carter defending his quarterback:
Murray was bombarded with backlash due to his video game hobbies earlier in his career, with famously a clause in his contract about not being on the game while watching film. Pundits and fans alike took turns bashing the 28-year-old, who was just coming off his first playoff appearance in 2021.
Aug 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) before the game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
However, the fall off during the second half of the season and the eventually blowout playoff lost ruined Murray’s reputation as many blamed his video game habit for the team’s shortcomings. The hate would lead the Cardinals to four wins the following season, in a season where Murray would tear his ACL in Week 14.
Aug 16, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) during the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
Since his ACL tear, the two-time Pro Bowler has put endless time in the gym and rehab center to get back on the field. The injury humbled and matured the former first overall pick into an inspiring leader, as Carter stated on Thursday. Murray’s teammates see him as a true team captain, as he has worked to get back on the field and has started to lead Arizona in the right direction.
It is unclear if Carter will make the 53-man roster, but his latest statement defending his team captain goes a long way to show his loyalty to his team and teammates.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
