GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals suffered plenty of losses to key defensive starters in Sunday’s home opener vs. the Carolina Panthers. In the first half, CB1 Max Melton and DL L.J. Collier went down with lower leg injuries to be subbed out of the game. In the third quarter, Calais Campbell and Will Johnson had the wind knocked out of them and were sidelined for multiple plays. The duo didn’t reappear until the fourth quarter when the Panthers were going on a run.
Sep 29, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Garrett Williams (21) celebrates an interception with teammate Max Melton (16) against the Washington Commanders in the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Then, on Carolina’s final scoring drive, QB Bryce Young found WR Hunter Renfrow on a short slant route that saw Budda Baker and Garrett Williams collide on. Williams has a history with knee issues, and Baker accidently slammed right into his knee. The 24-year-old need help to get off the field and just showcased the amount of injuries the team suffered in Sunday’s game.
Cardinals HC Gannon on injuries:
Campbell and Johnson return in the fourth quarter was massive, as the rookie cornerback had a key pass deflection in the end zone to extend the Panthers’ scoring drive. The 39-year-old recorded the game-winning sack on 4th-and-15 to get the ball back to Arizona and go to 2-0.
Arizona Cardinals defensive linemen Calais Campbell (93) and L.J. Collier (91) during mini-camp at Cardinals training center in Tempe on Jun 12, 2025.
However, even leaving Sunday with the win, the Cardinals will need to address its losses heading into next week. The result of the multiple injuries to the defense was a heap of messy play leading to penalties. Arizona had 12 penalties for 96 yards, and nearly handed Carolina the game-winning touchdown with three on the final drive.
Head coach Jonathan Gannon called Week 1 a good win, despite the close score. He will likely have a different approach when addressing this game.
Cardinals avoid collapse over Panthers thanks to D-Line in 27-22 home opener win
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
