GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals spent six of its seven 2025 draft picks on defensive players, which has turned into a promising class to this point. From the top of the draft to the last round, Arizona found players that can compete for a starting role. The talented rookie class can make as serious impact on the roster, leading to a potential Defensive Rookie of the Year award towards the end of the season.
The franchise haven’t had a DROY since 1996 with edge rusher Simeon Rice in 1996. According to SPD, the Cardinals will have four rookies in the race, as they’re in the top 40 in odds, with the highest being first-round pick Walter Nolen. However, his recent addition the PUP list could open the door for another rookie to make a jump.
Arizona Cardinals cornerback Will Johnson (0) waits for a drill to complete during training camp at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Aug. 6, 2025.
Cardinals players within the top 40 in DROY odds:
- 14: Walter Nolen +2700
- 16: Will Johnson +2925
- 31: Denzel Burke +5500
- 38: Jordan Burch +10000
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Denzel Burke (29) against the Kansas City Chiefs during a preseason NFL game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The easy answer will be second-round pick Will Johnson to make a case for DROY. Arizona’s secondary already lost two of its top cornerbacks in the secondary and will thrust Johnson into a more prominent role on a team that has high expectations entering the season.
Fellow rookie Denzel Burke could swoop into that role too. However, Johnson’s name value he gained from Michigan should make him a more prominent figure in the national media. The Cardinals have one of the easiest schedule starts to the season, meaning if the team can go undefeated through the first few weeks, Johnson campaign can really start to swing.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
