First-round CB prospect connected to Arizona Cardinals has potential injury red flag
The Arizona Cardinals have been connected to former Michigan cornerback prospect Will Johnson in many mock drafts. Johnson is one of the top cornerback prospects in the 2025 NFL draft and the Cardinals hold the 16th overall pick.
Johnson’s stock, though, could be falling. Projected for a while to be a top-10 pick, there are now beginning to be some concerns.
According to SI.com’s Albert Breer, “Johnson’s got a knee issue that, when added to questions on his long speed, is giving some teams pause (and could cause him to slide a bit).”
Johnson doesn’t have elite speed, something that has is a little bit of a red flag for a potential first-round corner.
He has had injury issues. He had knee surgery in 2023 that caused him to miss some time. He had a toe injury that hampered him in 2024. That kept him from working out at the NFL combine, and then a hamstring injury kept him from working out at his pro day.
If there is concern about his knee, it likely is more of a long-term thing stemming from his injury and surgery two years ago.
We will see on Thursday if this ends up being a concern for teams and whether the Cardinals pass on him if he is available to be drafted with the 16th pick.
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The Arizona Cardinals are currently evaluating potential first-round cornerback prospects in anticipation of the upcoming NFL Draft. One player who has garnered attention is a highly talented cornerback with standout collegiate performances, but recent injury concerns have raised some red flags for the franchise.
The prospect in question showcased exceptional skills, including speed, agility, and an ability to disrupt passing plays. However, during the evaluation process, medical reports revealed a history of injuries that could impact his draft stock. His college career was marred by a significant ankle injury that required surgery, leading to missed games in his junior season. While he returned for his senior year and displayed his elite capabilities, teams are weighing the risks associated with selecting a player who may not have fully overcome these physical setbacks.
For the Cardinals, who are looking to bolster their secondary following a tumultuous season, the decision to consider this cornerback hinges on multiple factors. On one hand, his skill set fits seamlessly into the defensive scheme, providing an immediate upgrade alongside their existing personnel. On the other hand, the risk of future injuries could hinder his ability to contribute effectively.
The Cardinals’ front office is tasked with balancing the potential reward of adding a dynamic playmaker against the concern of long-term durability. Their medical team will likely conduct thorough evaluations to ascertain the cornerback’s current health status before making a final decision. As the draft approaches, this prospect stands as a compelling yet complex option—one that could either significantly enhance the Cardinals’ defense or end up being a gamble that doesn’t pay off. Ultimately, their choice will reflect the franchise’s broader strategy for rebuilding and strengthening their roster.
