Kyler Murray Ranks as NFL’s Most Average Quarterback
Kyler Murray has recently been labeled as the NFL’s most average quarterback. This designation is based on his performance, particularly noted during a game against the Tennessee Titans. Despite putting up decent statistics, Murray’s inability to elevate his team’s success raises concerns.
Kyler Murray’s Performance Against the Titans
In a game characterized by mediocrity, Murray completed 23 out of 31 passes, throwing for 220 yards without an interception and rushing for a touchdown. On the surface, these numbers appear impressive. However, they disguise the reality of his lackluster performance under pressure.
- Murray’s completion percentage: 74.2%
- Total passing yards: 220
- Touchdowns: 1
Defensive Struggles of the Titans
The Titans have one of the worst defenses in the NFL, ranking poorly in crucial metrics:
- Points allowed per game: 28.2 (26th in the NFL)
- Yards allowed per drive: 33.3 (28th in the NFL)
- Rushing yards allowed: 734 (31st in the NFL)
- Points allowed per drive: 2.48 (28th in the NFL)
Despite facing this struggling defense, Murray could not capitalize on the opportunities to score. Instead, his playstyle failed to produce the necessary explosive plays, demonstrating a troubling inability to perform in critical moments.
Murray’s Declining Performance Metrics
The statistics reveal a concerning trend in Murray’s performance over recent seasons. His net yards per passing attempt have dropped to a career-low 4.81 this season. Additionally, he is experiencing a higher sack rate:
- Sack percentage: 9.04% of passing downs
- Pressure percentage: 14.4% of snaps
This means that despite facing minimal pressure, Murray is being sacked at an alarming rate. His rate of escaping pressure stands at a mere 5.36%, ranking him poorly among his peers.
Comparison with Other Quarterbacks
When compared to other NFL quarterbacks, Murray’s escape score reveals just how much he struggles under pressure:
| Quarterback | Team | Pressure % | Sack % | Escape Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kyler Murray | Cardinals | 14.4% | 9.0% | 5.36 |
| Joe Flacco | Browns | 26.3% | 5.3% | 20.97 |
| Justin Herbert | Chargers | 24.5% | 4.2% | 20.21 |
This comparison highlights that Murray not only takes an excessive number of sacks but also struggles to evade defenders, contributing to his reputation as the most average quarterback in the NFL.
Future Implications for Murray
The consensus among analysts is that Murray’s trajectory is concerning. With ample resources surrounding him—including a capable offensive line and skilled receivers—he bears the responsibility for his performance. The reality is stark: Murray’s struggles may hinder his team’s ability to compete effectively in the league.
As the season progresses, improving his performance will be critical if he hopes to shed the title of the league’s most average quarterback. Without significant improvement, the future looks bleak for both Murray and the Arizona Cardinals.
