As the Arizona Cardinals approach the 2025 NFL Draft, their strategic focus is evident: the team is determined to rebuild and strengthen its roster, aiming to return to playoff contention. After a challenging 2024 season, where they finished with a 4–13 record, the Cardinals are looking to address key areas of need to support quarterback Kyler Murray and enhance their overall team performance.
1. Wide Receiver: A Critical Need
The departure of Marquise Brown to the Kansas City Chiefs and the trade of Rondale Moore to the Atlanta Falcons have left significant gaps in the Cardinals’ receiving corps. With only Michael Wilson, Greg Dortch, and Zach Pascal returning, the team is in dire need of a true No. 1 wide receiver to complement Murray’s skills. The 2025 draft class offers a wealth of talent at the wide receiver position, with prospects like Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State), Malik Nabers (LSU), and Rome Odunze (Washington) projected to be available. Selecting one of these elite talents could provide the Cardinals with a dynamic playmaker capable of making an immediate impact.
2. Edge Rusher: Enhancing the Pass Rush
In the 2024 season, the Cardinals’ defense struggled to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, recording only 33 sacks—the third-fewest in the NFL. To remedy this, the team is prioritizing the acquisition of a top-tier edge rusher. Prospects like Mykel Williams from Georgia, who recorded five sacks in the 2024 season, are high on the Cardinals’ radar. Adding a player of Williams’ caliber could significantly bolster the pass rush and improve the defense’s overall effectiveness.
3. Cornerback: Strengthening the Secondary
The Cardinals’ secondary has been a point of concern, with the team allowing 3,604 passing yards in the 2024 season. While the addition of Sean Murphy-Bunting in free agency provides some stability, the team still lacks depth and consistency at the cornerback position. Young players like Garrett Williams and Kei’Trel Clark show promise but remain unproven. The draft offers several cornerback prospects who could contribute immediately, and selecting one could solidify the secondary and improve pass defense.
4. Offensive Line: Protecting the Quarterback
The offensive line is another area where the Cardinals seek improvement. With Jonah Williams coming off an injury-plagued season and veteran Kelvin Beachum entering free agency, the team needs to invest in the offensive line to ensure Murray’s protection. Prospects like Ohio State’s Josh Simmons, a versatile tackle with experience at both right and left tackle positions, could provide the necessary reinforcement. His familiarity with Cardinals’ offensive line coach Justin Frye, who previously coached him at Ohio State, could facilitate a smooth transition.
5. Linebacker: Bolstering the Defense
While the Cardinals have made some moves to address the linebacker position, including the signing of Mack Wilson, the unit still lacks a standout playmaker. Kyzir White returns for the final year of his contract, and Krys Barnes is on a one-year deal. The team could benefit from selecting a linebacker who can contribute immediately and provide long-term stability to the defense.
The Arizona Cardinals’ biggest draft need heading into the 2025 NFL Draft is the wide receiver position. Securing a top-tier receiver would provide Kyler Murray with a reliable target and significantly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities. Additionally, addressing the edge rusher, cornerback, offensive line, and linebacker positions will be crucial to building a competitive and balanced roster. With a strategic approach and careful selection, the Cardinals can position themselves for a successful 2025 season and beyond.
