GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals finally aren’t being counted out, they’re being counted in as USA Today ranked the Cardinals at No. 11 in their NFL Powers Rankings.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!
Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. (18) alongside quarterback Kyler Murray (1) against the Washington Commanders in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
USA Today released their power rankings before the NFL season kicks off on Thursday night, and placed the Arizona Cardinals at No. 11, which is a surprisingly high slot for a team coming off a 8-9 record last season. It’s a nod to improvement, and a sign of growing belief in what’s being built in Arizona. One of the predictions made by USA Today’s Nate Davis was that the Cardinals were to get out to a strong start. “A 5-2 start coming out of a Week 8 bye seems quite reasonable for a team that struggled to get out of the blocks during its first two seasons under coach Jonathan Gannon.” (Credit: Nate Davis | USA Today)
Dec 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) hands the ball to Arizona Cardinals running back James Conner (6) against the New England Patriots during the second half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
The changes surrounding the Arizona Cardinals are being recognized. Kyler Murray is healthy and focused. Marvin Harrison Jr. could be a franchise-altering talent, and is looking to make a jump entering his second year. Head coach Jonathan Gannon has turned what was once an unstable roster into a fast, physical, and disciplined group. The No. 11 ranking puts Arizona ahead of teams like the Buccaneers, 49ers, Seahawks, and Vikings, which are all playoff hopefuls that have proven NFL talent. It’s a major narrative shift for Arizona as they look to take advantage of an NFC West that doesn’t have one dominant team that is likely to run away with the divisional title.
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) against the Kansas City Chiefs during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Cardinals fans realize that the bump is more than just preseason hype, it’s validation. The rebuild isn’t just theoretical anymore. The league is paying attention, and the expectations are starting to shift. Of course, power rankings don’t win games. Though for a franchise trying to reestablish its identity and build a new culture, cracking the top 15 before the first week of the NFL season feels like a warning shot.
Arizona Cardinals positioned to prove PFF’s 2025 NFC West predictions wrong
Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
