Will Johnson‘s slide down the board has come to an finish. The Cardinals used choose No. 47 on the Michigan cornerback.
Johnson was lengthy seen as one of many prime defenders generally and canopy males specifically within the 2025 draft class. He was thus thought to be a first-round lock for a lot of the predraft course of. Nevertheless, considerations over a knee damage lately opened the door for Johnson needing to attend some time to listen to his title known as.
A 3-year contributor with the Wolverines, the junior confronted excessive expectations coming into the 2024 season. Throughout Michigan’s title run the 12 months earlier than, Johnson proved to be a pivotal determine; the All-American earned Defensive MVP honors within the nationwide championship recreation. Final 12 months, nonetheless, he handled a number of accidents and was restricted to only six video games because of this.
Johnson confronted questions on his lengthy velocity, and his resolution to not run the 40-yard sprint on the Mix or his Professional Day furthered considerations on that entrance. However, the potential stays for him to function as a beginning boundary nook on the NFL stage primarily based on his footwork and soccer IQ. He’ll look to take action upon arrival in Arizona.
The Cardinals ranked mid-pack when it comes to passing yards allowed final season. Nonetheless, loads of room exists for upgrading within the secondary, particularly after the group addressed the defensive entrance final evening (Walter Nolen). Johnson will be part of a CB room led by Sean Murphy-Bunting together with latest draftees Garrett Williams, Elijah Jones and Max Melton.
Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported that some groups see Johnson as a one-contract participant on account of his knee subject. The Cardinals are clearly not considered one of them, however it is going to be fascinating to see how his early NFL profession tenure performs out on the well being entrance.
