GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals couldn’t make it through the entire first week of training camp without suffering their first season-ending injury of the year.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to ESPN Senior Insider Adam Schefter, starting cornerback Starling Thomas suffered a torn ACL during Friday’s practice.
Tests revealed that Cardinals CB Starling Thomas, who has started 22 games the past two seasons in Arizona, tore his ACL during Friday’s practice, per source. pic.twitter.com/Qz4oIR8WFo
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 27, 2025
Over the past two seasons, Thomas has started 22 games for the Cardinals and has been an instrumental part of their defense, particularly in the back half. The 25-year-old has already accounted for 85 tackles in his career and 11 passes defended.
The injury couldn’t have happened at a worse position for Arizona, who were already considered thin at corner. Former 2nd-round pick Max Melton will now likely take over as the full-time starter, while being backed up by rookie Denzel Burke and Elijah Jones.
Jul 24, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Max Melton (16) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Cardinals will likely be playing one of the younger cornerback groups in the league this season, now with this year’s 2nd-round draft pick Will Johnson expected to start at the other cornerback position.
Arizona opens up its preseason on August 9th when it hosts Kansas City.
Nov 26, 2023; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Starling Thomas V (24) reacts against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.
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