Paris Johnson Jr. Fully Recovered as Arizona Cardinals Commence Offseason Program
The Arizona Cardinals have officially launched their offseason program, and a significant piece of their offensive line puzzle is reporting in full health. Left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., the team’s first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, has declared himself “completely” healthy as the team began its voluntary strength and conditioning program at the Dignity Health Training Facility on Tuesday, April 22, 2025.
Johnson’s clean bill of health marks a positive start to the Cardinals’ offseason endeavors. The promising offensive lineman’s 2024 season was cut short when he sustained a knee injury in Week 15 against the New England Patriots. This setback, the first time Johnson had ever missed a game in his football career spanning high school, college, and his professional tenure, sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Reflecting on the injury, Johnson acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the game, stating, “I haven’t had the issue ever. I haven’t missed a game in high school, college, or ever up until that point. It’s part of the game and it happens, unfortunately.”
The time away from the field has allowed Johnson’s knee to fully recover, and the former Ohio State standout expressed his readiness to participate fully in the team’s offseason activities. This offseason holds particular significance for the 23-year-old tackle. After transitioning from right tackle during his rookie season in 2023 to the left side in 2024, this will be the first time since his high school days that Johnson will play the same position in consecutive seasons. This positional consistency is expected to aid in his development and allow him to solidify his role as a cornerstone of the Cardinals’ offensive line.
Speaking about his goals for the upcoming season, Johnson conveyed a strong sense of determination. “I’m trying to show the world that it’s time for me to make the jump and be the best version of myself,” he asserted. “And I believe the best version of myself is as one of the best tackles in the game. Now it’s time to show it.” This ambition underscores Johnson’s commitment to honing his craft and establishing himself among the league’s elite offensive linemen.
Despite the premature end to his 2024 campaign due to injury, Johnson’s impact on the Cardinals’ offense was undeniable. He earned recognition as a Pro Bowl alternate, a testament to his performance and potential. Furthermore, he played a crucial role in an offensive line that facilitated running back James Conner’s second consecutive 1,000-yard rushing season. This achievement highlights the offensive line’s effectiveness in creating running lanes, a key aspect of the Cardinals’ offensive strategy.
The Cardinals’ offseason program commences with Phase One, which focuses on strength and conditioning. This initial phase will extend until mid-May, followed by Phase Two, which introduces on-field workouts without helmets, with the offense and defense practicing separately. The program culminates in Phase Three, incorporating Organized Team Activities (OTAs) where both sides of the ball can practice together, leading up to the mandatory minicamp scheduled for June 10-12. While the voluntary portions of the offseason program are crucial for team building and individual development, the mandatory minicamp will be a key period for coaches to assess the team’s progress and implement strategies for the upcoming season.
The complete recovery of Paris Johnson Jr. is a significant boost for the Arizona Cardinals as they embark on their offseason preparations. His health, coupled with the continuity of playing left tackle for a second straight year, positions him to take a significant leap in his performance. As the Cardinals aim to build on their progress from the previous season, a healthy and impactful Johnson will be instrumental in solidifying their offensive line and supporting their aspirations for the 2025 NFL season.
The Arizona Cardinals’ offseason schedule includes various key dates leading up to the start of the 2025 season. Following the commencement of the strength and conditioning program on April 22nd, the team will focus on the NFL Draft, which will take place from April 24th to 26th in Green Bay, Wisconsin. The Cardinals will also host a draft party for fans at State Farm Stadium on April 24th. Rookie minicamp is scheduled for May 9th to 11th, providing an opportunity for the team’s newest acquisitions to get acclimated. Voluntary Organized Team Activities (OTAs) with both veterans and rookies will take place from May 28th to 30th and June 3rd to 5th. The mandatory minicamp, a crucial period for team-wide practice and evaluation, is set for June 10th to 12th. These offseason activities are designed to prepare the team physically and strategically for the challenges of the upcoming NFL season.
The NFL’s offseason workout programs are structured in three phases over a period of nine weeks. Phase One, spanning the initial two weeks, is limited to meetings, strength and conditioning exercises, and physical rehabilitation. Phase Two extends for three weeks and allows for on-field workouts that include individual or group instruction and drills. These drills can involve offensive players lining up against offensive players and defensive players against defensive players, conducted at a walk-through pace, with no live contact or team offense versus team defense drills permitted. Phase Three encompasses the final four weeks of the program. During this phase, teams can conduct a total of ten days of Organized Team Practice Activity (OTAs). While live contact remains prohibited, 7-on-7, 9-on-7, and 11-on-11 drills are allowed, providing a more comprehensive team practice environment. Additionally, each club may hold one mandatory minicamp for veteran players during Phase Three. These offseason regulations, as outlined in the Collective Bargaining Agreement, aim to balance player safety with the necessary preparations for the rigors of the NFL season.
