The 2025 NFL Draft has concluded, revealing a mix of strategies and outcomes for all 32 teams. Noteworthy narratives include Shedeur Sanders’ unexpected drop in the draft order and the Jacksonville Jaguars’ bold decision to acquire Travis Hunter. Teams like the Arizona Cardinals and Atlanta Falcons received high praise, with analysts highlighting their focused selections to bolster defensive units. Conversely, the Cincinnati Bengals’ picks raised eyebrows, leading to a low draft grade. The Buffalo Bills aimed to shore up their secondary without making flashy moves, while the Baltimore Ravens once again capitalized on value, adding impactful players like Malaki Starks and Mike Green to their roster. As the offseason unfolds, how these rookie classes perform will be under close scrutiny, particularly for teams with clear needs that they aimed to address in this draft.

The Arizona Cardinals' recent draft strategy has garnered significant acclaim, particularly for their 2025 class, which was rich in defensive talent. Among the standout selections was Will Johnson, widely recognized as one of the biggest steals of the draft. Pro Football Focus analysts believe the Cardinals will continue this trend in 2026, projecting that they will select Miami edge Rueben Bain Jr. with their first-round pick. However, concerns arise regarding whether the Cardinals will indeed be picking at the 17th slot, given their improved roster and the weakened state of their division. They have already fortified their defensive line by signing Josh Sweat, and B.J. Ojulari, a second-round pick from two years ago, could emerge as a key player if he recovers well from injury.

The Arizona Cardinals made a significant impact during the 2025 NFL Draft, led by general manager Monti Ossenfort. Notable picks include first-round selection Walter Nolen, who is primed to bolster the defensive line. Day 2 acquisitions Will Johnson and Jordan Burch further enhance the team's prospects. The Cardinals' draft performance has been a topic of discussion among analysts, particularly regarding its alignment with the team's rebuilding strategy. Analyzing these moves provides insight into the Cardinals' future direction and potential on-field impact.

This year's NFL Draft showcased notable picks across all teams, highlighting the best selections from each franchise. The Arizona Cardinals made a significant move with cornerback Will Johnson, who, despite falling to the second round due to injury concerns, brings potential to bolster their defense. The Atlanta Falcons' first-round pick, James Pearce Jr., is a powerful edge rusher and a key addition to their pass rush.

Other standout choices include Teddye Buchanan of the Baltimore Ravens, who is expected to form a formidable linebacker duo with Roquan Smith, and T.J. Sanders for the Buffalo Bills, providing much-needed interior pressure. Each team not only found top talents but also honed in on their specific needs, establishing a solid foundation for the upcoming season.

In a calculated and strategic move, the Arizona Cardinals have secured two top-15 defensive prospects in Walter Nolen and Will Johnson, bolstering their defensive lineup significantly. General manager Monti Ossenfort emphasized the importance of value on draft day, resulting in a heavy investment in defensive talent with six of their seven picks focused on the defensive side of the ball.

Nolen, a defensive interior player from Ole Miss, earned the second-highest PFF run-defense grade in the FBS, indicating immediate impact potential for a Cardinals defense that struggled previously. Johnson, a cornerback from Michigan, brings impressive metrics, including a passer rating allowed in coverage that ranks in the 94th percentile, enhancing the team’s secondary alongside Garrett Williams.

Jordan Burch, selected from Oregon, adds depth and versatility to the pass rush, expected to thrive in various roles within the defensive scheme.