Since the final interception by the Packers sent the Cardinals to their first loss last week, wide receiver A.J. Green has taken the brunt of the blame.
Kliff Kingsbury disputed that analysis Wednesday.
"Like I said, that was miscommunication," Kingsbury said. "It had nothing to do with a fault of somebody. One guy thought it was one thing and another guy thought it was something else."
On the final play of the game, quarterback Kyler Murray targeted Green in the end zone for the potential game-winning touchdown. Green didn't turn around, and the pass was intercepted to seal the victory for the Packers.
Kingsbury knows it's been tough for Green dealing with constant widespread criticism. Kingsbury said nobody truly knows what was supposed to happen on the play except the players and coaches.
"One of those deals is we're a signal-based offense, and a signal was missed or misinterpreted, and that happens," Kingsbury said. "It wasn't like he screwed things up, and unfortunately, it just happened at a bad time."
Murray said he had a conversation with Green about the play but will keep the discussion details between them, adding that it's something to learn from as the team prepares for this week's contest with the 49ers.
Green has been productive in his first season with the Cardinals. Through eight games, the veteran ranks second on the team in receiving yards (456) and yards per game (57.0). Both are only trailing Hopkins.
Despite what happened on the final play against Green Bay, Kingsbury is still high on the former Pro Bowl receiver.
"He understands what he's meant to this offense so far and how much better we've been with him," Kingsbury said. "I expect him just to continue to play at a high level."
AARON RODGERS TESTS POSITIVE
Days after leading the Packers to the victory over the Cardinals at State Farm Stadium, quarterback Aaron Rodgers reportedly tested positive for Covid on Wednesday. Since Rodgers is unvaccinated, the signal-caller must miss the upcoming showdown against the Chiefs on Sunday and is not eligible to return until Nov. 13, per NFL-NFLPA protocols.
On Wednesday, Kingsbury was one of many to react to the news.
"It's tough," Kingsbury said. "I hate that all of us are still having to go through this, especially a player like him who is playing so well and just had a big win. Now, he can't lead his team, and I know how frustrating that is."
INJURY UPDATE
Murray did not practice Wednesday, but Kingsbury said the quarterback is progressing in his recovery process.
Joining Murray on the sideline were wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins (hamstring), running back Jonathan Ward (concussion), defensive lineman J.J. Watt (shoulder) and safety James Wiggins (knee). Limited were tackle Kelvin Beachum (rest), linebacker Zaven Collins (shoulder), running back Chase Edmonds (shoulder), offensive lineman Max Garcia (Achilles), defensive lineman Rashard Lawrence (calf), and offensive lineman Justin Pugh (calf).
For the 49ers, not practicing were defensive lineman Maurice Hurst (calf), running back Elijah Mitchell (rib), wide receiver Deebo Samuel (calf), safety Jimmie Ward (quadricep), and tackle Trent Williams (ankle).
