The Arizona Cardinals are one of the most storied franchises in the National Football League (NFL). Since their inception in 1920, the team has seen its fair share of ups and downs. From its early days as the Chicago Cardinals to its current home in Glendale, Arizona, the Cardinals have always been a team to watch. In this post, we’ll take a closer look at the team’s journey from its start to the present day.
The Chicago Years (1920-1959)
The Cardinals were founded in Chicago, Illinois, in 1920, making them one of the NFL’s oldest teams. The team’s first season was not particularly successful, finishing with a 6-2-1 record. However, the Cardinals would go on to win their first NFL championship in 1925, defeating the Pottsville Maroons.
The Cardinals would go on to have several successful seasons throughout the 1930s, including another championship victory in 1947. During this time, the team was led by star quarterback Charley Trippi, who is now enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Despite their early success, the Cardinals struggled throughout the 1950s, failing to make the playoffs in any season.
The St. Louis Years (1960-1987)
In 1960, the Cardinals moved to St. Louis, Missouri, hoping to find a fresh start. The team continued to struggle for several years, but things began to turn around in the late 1960s. Led by quarterback Jim Hart and head coach Don Coryell, the Cardinals made the playoffs in 1974 and 1975, reaching the NFC Championship game in the latter year.
The team would make the playoffs again in 1982 and 1984, but was unable to advance beyond the first round. Despite the team’s limited success, the 1980s saw the emergence of several Cardinals greats, including Neil Lomax, Roy Green, and Ottis Anderson.
Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Years (1988-Present)
In 1988, the Cardinals moved to their current home in Arizona, hoping to establish themselves as a major player in the NFL. Despite early struggles, the team showed promise throughout the 1990s, reaching the playoffs in 1998 for the first time in 16 years.
The 2000s would prove to be a tumultuous decade for the Cardinals, as the team struggled to find consistent success. However, the team’s fortunes would change in 2008, as the Cardinals won their first NFC Championship and advanced to Super Bowl XLIII. Although they ultimately lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the team’s playoff run was a major milestone for the franchise.
The Cardinals would make the playoffs again in 2009 and 2014, but have struggled to maintain consistency in recent years. However, the team remains one of the NFL’s most exciting, with stars like quarterback Kyler Murray and wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins leading the way.
In conclusion, the Arizona Cardinals have a long and storied history in the NFL. From their early days in Chicago to their current home in Arizona, the team has experienced both highs and lows. While the team has faced its fair share of challenges, it has always remained a source of pride for its fans. With a talented roster and a dedicated fanbase, the Cardinals are poised for continued success in the years to come.