Clayton Tune's Potential Starting Role
In an unexpected turn of events, the Arizona Cardinals might see Clayton Tune stepping in as their starting quarterback against the Cleveland Browns, should Kyler Murray not be activated in time for the game. This development comes courtesy of a report from Adam Schefter, who suggests that Tune might be making his first career start for the Cardinals soon. This situation has emerged following the Cardinals' decision to trade Joshua Dobbs to the Minnesota Vikings, leaving Tune as the sole quarterback on the Cardinals' 53-man roster.
Cardinals' Quarterback Landscape
Following the trade, the Cardinals moved quickly to strengthen their quarterback lineup by signing Jeff Driskel to the practice squad. Before this potentially pivotal game, Tune has only seen action in one snap during the season, a fact that underscores the magnitude of the opportunity before him. Despite his limited on-field experience, Tune's preparation and anticipation for the role are evident. He expressed his excitement about the opportunity, stating, "It's exciting to have this opportunity. I feel like I've been preparing the same way I have been all season."
Teammates' Confidence in Tune
It's not just Cardinals' management showing faith in Tune; his teammates have also voiced their support and admiration for his abilities and demeanor. D.J. Humphries, in particular, praised Tune's composure and confidence, reflecting a team that stands firmly behind its potential new quarterback. The sentiment was echoed by teammate Geoff Swaim, who highlighted Tune's capability to command presence in the huddle—a critical trait for any successful quarterback.
Tune's calmness and leadership have not come out of the blue. He credits his growth in these areas to learning from both Dobbs and Murray, emphasizing the importance of cool, calm, and collected demeanor on the field. This learning curve from college to the NFL is something Tune acknowledges as steep, yet his preseason performance, where he completed 34 of 59 passes for 353 yards, suggests he's capable of handling the pressure.
Understanding the NFL's Pace
Drew Petzing, recognizing Tune's transition into the NFL, observed his dedication to understanding the pace and challenges of the league, stating, "I think he really embraced that challenge and learning that and committing himself to that. So, it's been fun to see." This journey of adaptation and learning has been central to Tune's development, positioning him as a credible option for the Cardinals moving forward.
Conclusion
As the Cardinals approach their match against the Cleveland Browns, all eyes will be on Clayton Tune, should he be named the starter. His journey from a preseason participant to potentially leading the team in a regular-season game is a testament to not just his abilities but also the trust the organization and his teammates place in him. With the support structure around him and the dedication he has shown to adapting to the NFL's demands, Tune's potential start could mark the beginning of an exciting chapter for both him and the Arizona Cardinals.