Arizona Cardinals’ Draft Prep Heats Up: 13 First-Round Prospects Visit as Defense Gets a Boost
The Arizona Cardinals are leaving no stone unturned ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. With a clear focus on bolstering their roster and building a sustainable future, the team hosted official pre-draft visits with at least 13 prospects projected to go in the first round.
This aggressive approach signals Arizona’s intent to maximize their draft capital and ensure they get the most out of a loaded class. General manager Monti Ossenfort and head coach Jonathan Gannon are putting in the work to evaluate not just talent, but culture fits for a team that’s aiming to rise fast in the NFC West.
While the Cardinals have multiple needs—especially at receiver and along the offensive line—the front seven just got a major lift. With several offseason additions and a strong free agency showing, Arizona’s defensive line and linebacker corps now look far more formidable than they did a year ago. That newfound depth allows the front office flexibility when it comes to draft strategy.
Among the prospects who visited, several fit the mold of high-upside defenders who could further strengthen the unit. But the Cardinals aren’t pigeonholing themselves. Reports indicate visits included a balanced mix—edge rushers, corners, receivers, and offensive linemen—giving Arizona the freedom to go best player available or trade strategically, depending on how the board falls.
Arizona currently holds multiple picks in the first round, including a high selection via Houston. That puts the Cardinals in a prime position to land an impact player early and potentially move around the board to snag a second standout.
After finishing last season with flashes of promise but a lack of consistency, especially on defense, it’s clear the Cardinals are emphasizing foundational upgrades. The organization believes it has the quarterback in Kyler Murray—now, the mission is surrounding him with a roster capable of competing deep into January.
With 13 top-tier prospects walking through the doors in Tempe and a retooled front seven already in place, the Cardinals’ 2025 draft could be the turning point for a franchise eager to soar again.
