GLENDALE – Though the Cardinals may be entering a new era on the sideline, one thing is becoming clear as Arizona doesn’t intend to reset at left tackle. By exercising Paris Johnson Jr.’s fifth-year option, the organization is making a calculated bet on continuity in a league where instability up front often derails everything else.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort confirmed that Arizona picked up LT Paris Johnson Jr.’s fifth-year option.
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) April 16, 2026
Johnson’s résumé doesn’t jump off the page at first glance, but durability and reliability are currency in the trenches. He’s started 43 games across three seasons, anchoring a unit that has struggled for cohesion. Even in 2025, when a knee injury limited him to 12 games, his absence underscored his value more than his presence ever could as pressure rates climbed, and offensive rhythm dipped.
Dec 15, 2024; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. (70) against the New England Patriots at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
This move isn’t just about one player. It’s about philosophical alignment. Championship teams from recent Super Bowl contenders to perennial playoff fixtures almost always feature top-tier offensive lines. Teams ranked in the top five in pass protection win significantly more games and sustain deeper postseason runs.
Dec 31, 2023; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr. (70) against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-USA TODAY Sports
For Cardinals fans, this is a signal worth paying attention to. It suggests the front office understands that protecting the quarterback and establishing consistency up front is not optional; it’s essential. Arizona isn’t chasing quick fixes. By bringing back Paris Johnson Jr. now with picking up his fifth-year option, they’re laying the groundwork for something more sustainable, and potentially, more competitive down the line.
Cardinals offensive linemen Isaiah Adams (74) and Johnson Jr. (70) fist bump as they walk on the field during a preseason game at State Farm Stadium on August 9, 2025.© Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
