Johnson, the Cardinals’ second-round pick, perhaps could start as a rookie.
The Arizona Cardinals selected seven players in the 2025 NFL draft. Their second-round pick, cornerback Will Johnson, was selected 47th overall.
What role could he play for the team as a rookie? We will look at each draft pick and make projections for what role each can viably expect for them in 2025.
What is the case for Johnson?
Expected role for Arizona Cardinals CB Will Johnson
Johnson has high-end CB1 potential. However, the Cardinals have guys ahead of him. That includes veteran Sean-Murphy-Bunting, Star Thomas and stud slot corner Garrett Williams. They also have 2024 second-round pick Max Melton who was part of the playing rotation.
Murphy-Bunting isn’t likely going anywhere, especially with nearly $7.7 million in guaranteed salary.
Williams isn’t coming out of the rotation. Thomas started 15 games last season, but he could be a guy the Cardinals look to trade. Melton is likely ready for an increased role in 2025 after playing more than 500 defensive snaps as a rookie.
Johnson’s best-case scenario is starting. What is more likely is he plays a similar role as Melton did last year, rotating with one of the starters.
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