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Despite that, Murray and the offense thrived at times last season. It was evident the Cardinals still had a lot of holes, but Murray showed flashes of what the Cardinals can be with time and talent.

This offseason, the Cardinals need to make moves to be competitive next season in a tough NFC West division. The top order should be bringing in more playmakers on offense to support Murray and execute Kingsbury’s vision.

Arizona Cardinals (5-10-1), missed playoffs

Murray can do a lot with a little, but the Cardinals need to get him some protection and a reliable weapon or two.

Offensive tackle : The Cardinals took care of the left tackle spot when they extended D.J. Humphries on a three-year deal. But they also have a need at the other tackle spot. Waiver claim Justin Murray played well at right tackle, and Arizona could bring him back. The team could also find a new starting tackle with the No. 8 pick in the draft, like Tristan Wirfs of Iowa, to ensure Kyler Murray isn’t sacked 48 times again. Wide receiver : Larry Fitzgerald isn’t going anywhere, but he’ll be 37 when the season starts. Even though the Cardinals have some good, young receivers like Andy Isabella and Christian Kirk, Kingsbury’s offense could use another big-play wideout to help Murray’s growth. Linebacker : Chandler Jones remains worth every penny of the big-money contract he signed in 2017, but his supporting cast at linebacker hasn’t been nearly as inspired. Former first-round pick Haason Reddick has been ineffective. Jordan Hicks, who signed a $34 million contract last offseason, disappointed with a career-high 21 missed tackles. That leaves plenty of room for upgrades on the edge and inside in Glendale.

What Revenge of the Birds wants most this offseason : This offseason is all about building on what was good growth offensively. The Cardinals need to find another weapon outside for Murray and make sure they have a long-term solution ready along the offensive line at right tackle and right guard. Finally, the defense needs the same type of rebrand, which makes this offseason tough. When you need to figure out two or three spots on offense and potentially need six or seven starters on defense the offseason can seem a bit daunting. For me, that means finishing the offense before turning your focus to finding a way to rebuild the defense. — Seth Cox

We’ll check back on the Cardinals after free agency to see what they still need heading into the 2020 NFL Draft.