GLENDALE – Despite routing the Carolina Panthers in Week 2, the Arizona Cardinals have to feel like it lost in a certain way. Four key defensive starters were sidelined during Sunday’s home opener vs. Carolina. Cornerbacks Max Melton and Will Johnson and defensive linemen L.J. Collier and Calais Campbell all saw the blue medical tent at State Farm Stadium.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Campbell and Johnson were able to return to the game, while Melton and Collier were ruled out for the game.
Sep 14, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Calais Campbell (93) enters the field prior to the first half against the Carolina Panthers at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
Three Cardinals players exit Sunday’s game vs. Panthers:
On a highlight player from Carolina wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, Melton was able to chase him down for the tackle, but couldn’t get up from the play. The 23-year-old was soon carted off the field with a towel over his head, not a great sight for the young cornerback. Melton has been playing stellar ball the last few seasons and looked to take the mantle of CB1 for Arizona. The team is hoping it is nothing serious for their top guy.
Johnson had a Panthers wide receiver land on his hand and had him in immense pain, but was able to withstand it and return later in the fourth quarter.
Cardinals defensive lineman L.J. Collier (91) sacks Chiefs quarterback Bailey Zappe (14) during a preseason game at State Farm Stadium on Aug. 9, 2025, in Glendale.
Campbell and Collier each were taken out during pile ups at the line of scrimmage. Collier exited early in the second quarter, while Campbell fell to a knee in the third quarter. Collier was ruled out of the game, while Campbell returned late in the fourth quarter. The reason could be because of the Sunday’s game not being close, but it will be something to look afterwards heading into next week.
Cardinals look to extend Panthers historic losing streak in Week 2
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*
Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
