Arizona Cardinals Look to Rebuild Defense with Defensive Overhaul
Aspiring rookie cornerback, Will Johnson, poised to demonstrate his skills for the Cardinals football team.
Happy times in Tempe, Arizona! Newly drafted cornerback Will Johnson is brimming with positivity, finally settling in with the Arizona Cardinals after sliding down the draft board due to injury concerns.
Two weeks have passed, and Johnson's changed perspective is all about gratitude, work ethic, and high expectations.
"Beyond stoked to be part of the team, pumped to get to work, and ready to witness the magic they've got planned," Johnson said.
The Cardinals, under the leadership of third-year coach Jonathan Gannon, are seen as a rising franchise that displayed promising progress last season with an 8-9 record. That's quite the four-win improvement over the previous season. Now, they're embarking on a defensive transformation, aiming for their first return to the playoffs since 2021.
Johnson is slated to make his mark on Friday, as minicamp kicks off for rookies.
"It's crystal clear they're gunning for a title," Johnson said. "They've got a powerhouse on offense, and it looks like they're assembling the same caliber of defense to complete the puzzle. We just need to put in the work and show why we're the real deal."
The Cardinals' draft strategy in April highlighted their priorities, with a focus on offensive lineman Hayden Conner being the sole exception. But the majority of their picks were dedicated to building up the defense, including Walter Nolen III (DT from Ole Miss) and Johnson.
Arizona also beefed up their defense in free agency, bringing in vets like Josh Sweat, Calais Campbell, and Dalvin Tomlinson.
"Where else would I rather be but here?" Johnson said with confidence.
Some doubt Johnson's fitness, given his injury history. He appeared in merely six games last season with Michigan, dealing with turf toe and a hamstring issue that kept him away from the Wolverines' pre-draft pro day. The lingering knee issue that required surgery in 2023 also raises concerns. But Johnson insists he's good to go.
"No problems here, ready to rock," Johnson said.
The Cardinals' coaching staff, led by Gannon, is known for their commitment to player development, especially when it comes to their defensive backs. Corners Garrett Williams (2023), Max Melton (2024), and now Johnson are testaments to this focus.
Much like Johnson, Williams dropped in the draft due to injury concerns, but he's rapidly emerged as a key player. Williams, Melton, and Johnson could all play crucial roles this upcoming season.
"Gannon's energy is infectious, and you gotta love a coach who's deeply devoted to his players," Johnson said. "He puts his heart into his work, truly caring about his players. That's the kind of leader I want managing my future."
Gannon's defensive system offers flexibility and diversity, creating an environment that caters to versatile playmakers like Johnson. For a self-assured player who felt undervalued in the draft, this wide-ranging approach seems ideal.
"I've moved past the draft, using it as motivation," Johnson said. "I can sense something great on the horizon, and I'm excited for it."
[AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL]
Analytical Insights
- The Arizona Cardinals are shifting their focus to an aggressive defensive strategy, with a focus on bolstering the run defense and pass rush.
- Notable additions to their defensive unit include edge rusher Josh Sweat, defensive tackles Dalvin Tomlinson and Calais Campbell, and rookie cornerback Will Johnson.
- The Cardinals' coaching staff under head coach Jonathan Gannon has a strong reputation for developing defensive backs, providing key opportunities for players like Garrett Williams, Max Melton, and Will Johnson.
- Will Johnson, newly drafted by the Arizona Cardinals, expressed his enthusiasm about joining the team, saying, "Beyond stoked to be part of the team, pumped to get to work, and ready to witness the magic they've got planned."
- Arizona Cardinals' coach Jonathan Gannon is known for his commitment to player development, particularly for defensive backs, with players like Garrett Williams, Max Melton, and now Will Johnson, all benefiting from his approach.
- The Cardinals, under the leadership of third-year coach Jonathan Gannon, have embarked on a defensive transformation, aiming for their first return to the playoffs since 2021. Their draft strategy in April prioritized building up the defense, including the selection of defensive players like Walter Nolen III and Will Johnson.
- The Cardinals beefed up their defense in free agency, bringing in experienced players like Josh Sweat, Calais Campbell, and Dalvin Tomlinson to complement their young defensive talent.
- Johnson, despite the injury concerns that caused him to slip down the draft board, is confident about his current situation, saying, "Where else would I rather be but here?" and insisting, "No problems here, ready to rock."
