GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals get the steal of the 2025 NFL draft in the second round with the selection of Michigan defensive back Will Johnson, who was projected to be a top 10 pick. General manager Monti Ossenfort gets a day-one starter in Johnson, who was crucial for the Wolverines’ 2023 National Championship run.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The reason for Johnson’s slide to the 47th overall pick was with major injury concerns. The 22-year-old missed half of his junior season due to lingering injuries, and through the recent draft process, teams became aware of an apparent knee injury that made front offices hesitant.
Apr 24, 2025; Green Bay, WI, USA; Michigan Wolverines cornerback Will Johnson with his parents Kafi Kumasi and Deon Johnson on the red carpet before the 2025 NFL Draft at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Injury concerns surrounding Johnson:
What Johnson brings to the Cardinals:
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS: Michigan defensive back Will Johnson celebrates a touchdown after intercepting USC quarterback Miller Moss during the second half at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2024.
If Johnson is able to stay on the field and healthy, he is a surefire future Pro-Bowler in this league. His production score at the NFL Combine was second, and has all the physical intangibles to be elite. At 6’2, Johnson has impressive size, but yet insane fluidity in his backpedal and strides downfield to stick with his assignment.
At Michigan, Johnson had nine interceptions and 10 pass deflections and earned Third-team AP All-American in 2024 despite only appearing in six games. His football IQ is unparalleled for a prospect of his age, reading coverage and patience in his technique.
Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort speaks about Walter Nolen with head coach Jonathan Gannon during a news conference inside the Arizona Cardinals training facility on April 24, 2025, in Tempe. Syndication: Arizona Republic
Ossenfort adds Johnson to a Cardinals secondary that needed a bonafide number-one cornerback, and Johnson has the potential to fill that role if he stays healthy. After the draft’s conclusion, many media outlets will have Johnson as the biggest steal of the entire event.
Cardinals top prospects to look for on Day 2 of 2025 NFL Draft
*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
