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The Arizona Cardinals doubled up on defense with the first two picks of the 2025 NFL draft. After taking Ole Miss defensive lineman Walter Nolen in the first round with the 16th overall pick on Thursday, they added Michigan cornerback Will Johnson in the second round, using the 47th overall pick.
What grade does the pick deserve?
Johnson's talent is undeniable. He was one of the best cornerbacks in college football. He was projected for a while in the top 10 of the draft. He was the No. 16 player in the player rankings by NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah.
However, the Cardinals are taking some risk. Teams red-flagged his knee, although he hasn't had an issue with it for two years. There is concern about his long-term health. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport said on the draft broadcast that it is similar to the knee issue that former Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Myles Jack had. He played seven NFL seasons.
Johnson doesn't have pain and there is no swelling, but a potential degenerative issue is risky.
He also suffered a toe injury in 2024 and a hamstring injury in his pre-draft work.
However, he is a big-time boundary corner. He could be a shutdown guy, someone to lock down opposing receivers.
But because the Cardinals are in the minority of teams not worried about the knee, that is something to watch.
Grade: B-plus
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.
This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: NFL draft grades for Arizona Cardinals 2nd-round pick Will Johnson
Continue reading...
What grade does the pick deserve?
Arizona Cardinals draft grades: CB Will Johnson
Johnson's talent is undeniable. He was one of the best cornerbacks in college football. He was projected for a while in the top 10 of the draft. He was the No. 16 player in the player rankings by NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah.
However, the Cardinals are taking some risk. Teams red-flagged his knee, although he hasn't had an issue with it for two years. There is concern about his long-term health. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport said on the draft broadcast that it is similar to the knee issue that former Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Myles Jack had. He played seven NFL seasons.
Johnson doesn't have pain and there is no swelling, but a potential degenerative issue is risky.
He also suffered a toe injury in 2024 and a hamstring injury in his pre-draft work.
However, he is a big-time boundary corner. He could be a shutdown guy, someone to lock down opposing receivers.
But because the Cardinals are in the minority of teams not worried about the knee, that is something to watch.
Grade: B-plus
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or Apple podcasts.
This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: NFL draft grades for Arizona Cardinals 2nd-round pick Will Johnson
Continue reading...
