Arizona’s defense and special teams carried the show in a 20-17 win over Kansas City, flipping field position and forcing KC to grind for every yard. The Cardinals deployed 37 defenders in the run game, and the plan paid off as the Chiefs totaled just 249 yards (4.0 per play) and converted five of 13 on third down. Stifling the run in the first half helped keep pressure on the KC quarterback, while L.J. Collier produced the lone sack but the line and edge players created persistent pressure.

Turnovers and takeaways were the heart of Arizona’s night. Darren Hall and Kitan Crawford intercepted Bailey Zappe, with Hall’s pick coming as KC marched and helped swing momentum to the Cardinals. Will Johnson and Max Melton started and flashed; Denzel Burke contributed four solo tackles. On special teams, miscues surfaced (Dortch’s opening kickoff fumble, DeeJay Dallas’ muff, and a Matt Araiza punt muff), but Chad Ryland nailed 33- and 50-yarders to seal it. Ryland’s booming kick from 50 yards four seconds into the fourth provided the game-winner as the Cardinals showcased a roster-building, young defensive core and a reliable leg in Ryland.

The Arizona Cardinals have successfully signed their entire 2025 draft class by finalizing a four-year rookie contract with cornerback Will Johnson, the 47th overall pick from this year's draft. Johnson, who comes from Michigan, was initially projected to be a first-round selection but fell to the Cardinals due to injury concerns. His signing takes place just before the team begins training camp, marking a significant step for the young player as he prepares to join the competitive landscape of the NFL.

As the Cardinals gear up for the upcoming season, Johnson's addition could bolster their secondary, especially as they focus on improving their defense. This contract solidifies the Cardinals' commitment to developing young talent as they aim for a stronger performance in the league.

The Arizona Cardinals made a remarkable selection in the 2025 NFL draft, opting for former Michigan Wolverines cornerback Will Johnson with the 47th overall pick. This decision marked a deviation from common trends as multiple teams overlooked Johnson, who was long considered a top-10 talent. His impressive history includes being a five-star recruit, a three-time Big Ten Champion, and a national champion, showcasing his potential impact in the NFL.

Johnson, despite being passed over earlier, carries a strong confidence into professional football. His skills and experience from Michigan's competitive football program suggest he will be a formidable challenge for opposing receivers in the league. Expect Johnson to make an immediate contribution to the Cardinals' secondary, enhancing their defensive strategies.

The Arizona Cardinals' defense is set for a significant reshuffle following the season-ending injury of veteran cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting. This opens the door for rookie Will Johnson, a second-round pick from the 2025 NFL Draft, to step into a starting role as the team's CB1. With Murphy-Bunting out, Johnson is expected to fill the void alongside slot corner Garrett Williams and several other young defenders. Johnson's transition from college football to the NFL will be closely monitored, as Arizona's defense looks to solidify its backfield and enhance its overall performance.

The Cardinals, who had high expectations for Johnson prior to the draft, now see a perfect opportunity for him to showcase his skills right from Week 1. The competition, which included other promising talents like Max Melton and Star Thomas, will now focus on Johnson's ability to adapt quickly to the NFL's rigorous demands. His performance will be crucial for the team's defensive strategy and could impact Arizona’s chances in the upcoming season.

The Arizona Cardinals' 2025 NFL Draft class is garnering significant praise, with many analysts considering it a major success. Highlighting their top three picks, cornerback Will Johnson stands out as a potential draft steal. Initially projected as a top-10 talent, Johnson fell to the second round due to injury concerns, yet his ball-hawking skills mirror those of Trevon Diggs, making him a valuable asset for the team's defense.

Alongside Johnson, defensive lineman Walter Nolen, selected at 16, is viewed as a perfect fit for the Cardinals' defensive scheme under coach Jonathan Gannon. Nolen's upside is seen as tremendous, and he could thrive in Arizona's system, even if it's misidentified as a 4-3. Finally, linebacker Jordan Burch, drafted at 78, showcases impressive athleticism and versatility, roundly praised for his potential to impact the defense significantly depending on his development.