GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals secondary has been ransacked with injures. Max Melton, Will Johnson and Garrett Williams have all missed time due to injuries during the 2025 season. Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis was left with bare options to who to plug into those spots, and luckily for him, a 2025 fifth-round pick would soon become the team’s hidden gem.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Defensive back Denzel Burke has had an rollercoaster rookie season. After playing zero defensive snaps in the season opener, Burke played 67 defensive snaps the following weeks due to injuries. The former Ohio State standout was impressive in his debut, but would be regulated for more established cornerbacks.
However, Burke has returned to the lineup in the past two weeks and has made a massive statement. The 23-year-old recorded two interceptions and three pass deflections in his last two games. Bringing his PFF overall grade score to 75.1, which puts him 11th out of 106th eligible cornerbacks.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Denzel Burke (29) celebrates after intercepting a pass by Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) in the second half at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Burke speaks with media on Monday:
When speaking with the media on Monday, Burke explained that this level of play is nothing new for him, as playing with the Buckeyes prepared him for this moment. These recent reps have slowed the game down for the young cornerback and sees plenty of room to grow and iron out any hiccups in his game.
Nov 3, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Denzel Burke (29) breaks up a pass intended for Dallas Cowboys wide receiver CeeDee Lamb (88) during the game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Arizona Cardinals at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-Imagn Images
With Melton and Johnson missing last week’s game, Burke’s defensive snaps could decrease when the duo return. Regardless, Burke has earned the right to stay on the field with the traditional starter, as his impact in the secondary has saved a shorthanded unit this season.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
