21 days remain before the Arizona Cardinals open the 2025 regular season against the New Orleans Saints. The No. 21 jersey has a storied lineage in Arizona, worn by cornerbacks and running backs across decades. Patrick Peterson wore it through the 2011–2020 era, a period that defined the position and left a Hall of Fame-level imprint. Today Garrett Williams carries the number in his third NFL season, guiding a young Cardinals secondary and continuing a thread of speed, ball skills, and versatility that has threaded through the franchise since the 1940s. The countdown highlights the jersey as more than a uniform—it's a symbol of defensive identity and a potential fantasy lever as Arizona faces a test in New Orleans.

Across generations, No. 21 has appeared on a list of Cardinals defenders and playmakers—from Hamza Abdullah and Antrel Rolle to Renaldo Hill, Dexter Davis, Mark Jackson, and beyond—each contributing in eras with different rosters and schemes. The piece weaves the historical weight with contemporary evaluation: Williams embodies the current carryover, Peterson’s legacy looms as a benchmark, and the Saints’ Week 1 matchup could crystallize how the No. 21 torch is passed in 2025. For fantasy managers, the jersey’s history signals both pedigree and opportunity in a young secondary that could produce tackles, passes defended, and occasional turnovers as the defense settles in under pressure.

The Arizona Cardinals are poised for an exciting training camp as they address several key position battles, particularly in the cornerback slots. With Garrett Williams firmly holding down the slot position, all eyes are on the competition for the two boundary corner spots. The Cardinals have three contenders vying for these roles, presenting a unique opportunity for players to make their mark. The team's depth at cornerback could significantly impact their defensive strategy in the upcoming season.

Arizona Cardinals cornerback Garrett Williams is set for a pivotal year as he enters his third season, following a promising 2024 campaign. After overcoming an ACL injury, Williams played a crucial role in the Cardinals' defensive strategy, appearing in 16 games and starting 11. His stats reflect his impact: 58 tackles, two interceptions, and nine passes defended.

Heading into 2025, Williams carries a base salary of $1.262 million with a cap hit of $1.539 million. As he becomes eligible for a contract extension next offseason, questions arise about his long-term role with the team and if he can build on last season's success. His performance will be closely monitored as he strives to solidify his status on the roster.

Garrett Williams and a youthful group of cornerbacks for the Arizona Cardinals are poised for a breakout season. Williams believes the secondary is underrated and is ready to garner national attention this year. Following a promising evaluation by Pro Football Focus, which ranked him as the 22nd-best cornerback, Williams is under pressure to lead after the loss of veteran Sean Murphy-Bunting due to injury.

At just 24, Williams is stepping into a pivotal leadership role as he aims to solidify his starting position alongside other young talents. The Cardinals' cornerback room, averaging under 24 years of age, boasts a mix of experience from the last three drafts, with all players eager to learn and grow in defensive coordinator Nick Rallis' system. The team's chemistry is key as they prepare for a crucial season ahead.