Arizona Cardinals made a pivotal decision by placing cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting on the non-football injury reserve, effectively ending his 2025 season. This strategic move opens opportunities for the Cardinals, particularly for rookies Will Johnson and Denzel Burke, who now have increased chances of making meaningful contributions this season. Prior to this, the Cardinals bolstered their cornerback depth through the acquisition of veteran Asante Samuel Jr. and the drafting of two promising cornerbacks, showing foresight in their defense plans.

Murphy-Bunting’s contract situation also benefits the Cardinals financially, as they are no longer obligated to pay his nearly $7.7 million salary for the season. With Garrett Williams emerging as a star and Max Melton expected to take on a larger role, the team's defensive strategy appears to be aligning for a dynamic 2025. This off-season transition reflects a proactive approach, similar to their prior strategic moves involving other key roster players.

Garrett Williams has caught the attention of Pro Football Focus (PFF) as the most underrated player on the Arizona Cardinals' roster. Despite the team's star power with names like Kyler Murray and Budda Baker dominating headlines, Williams has established himself as a crucial piece of the secondary that deserves recognition. His ability to perform under pressure and contribute to the defensive scheme puts him ahead of many of his peers, which PFF emphasizes in their assessment.

Williams’ improved play in 2023 has been crucial for the Cardinals, especially as they navigate a challenging season. His skill set and impact on the field often go unnoticed amidst the flashier statistics of his teammates, but those who pay close attention know that Williams' contributions are instrumental for the team’s success. As the Cardinals aim for playoff contention, Williams will be a key player to watch.

The NFC West is home to several underrated players who often fly under the radar. Notably, Garrett Williams of the Arizona Cardinals has emerged as a key defensive asset. As the primary slot cornerback, he achieved a remarkable 83.7 PFF coverage grade in the 2024 season, ranking second among his peers. Williams allowed just a 25.9% rate of first downs or touchdowns in coverage, demonstrating his efficiency and reliability. Comparatively, while Budda Baker garners most of the defensive accolades, Williams is quickly becoming a pivotal figure in the Cardinals' secondary.

In contrast, the Los Angeles Rams feature Alaric Jackson as their most underrated player. His contributions on the offensive line are crucial, especially in protecting the quarterback and ensuring a stable running game. Jackson's ability to effectively anchor the front line transforms the Rams' offensive strategies. These players exemplify the depth of talent in the NFC West, highlighting that even in star-studded teams, there are hidden gems worth recognizing.

The Arizona Cardinals have had a substantial number of third-round picks over the last decade, with 2024 adding to their roster. Players like Trey Benson and Tip Reiman are expected to contribute significantly moving forward. The recent haul has shown a mix of hits and misses; Garrett Williams and Michael Wilson have emerged as promising talents, while others like Chad Williams faltered. Zach Allen, once a Cardinal, made an impression as a second-team All-Pro with the Denver Broncos. Currently, the Cardinals are banking on new additions like Benson and Wilson to elevate their game in the upcoming seasons.