The Arizona Cardinals were fed up with having one of the worst defenses in the NFL. In 2024, the team ranked 27th in defensive EPA per play. Throughout the offseason, Arizona has been aggressive in acquiring talent to fill their holes on defense.
After big-name signings like Josh Sweat and Calais Campbell, Arizona's front seven looks ready to compete in 2025. However, the Cardinals have yet to address their secondary. They may look to do so in the upcoming NFL Draft.
The Cardinals hold six picks in this year's draft, including the 16th overall selection. Based on the current state of their defense, fans can expect them to target the cornerback position with at least one of those picks. If they do, Arizona has options throughout the draft.
Arizona Cardinals best draft fits at cornerback
Early option: Will Johnson, Michigan
At this time last year, Will Johnson was considered to be one of the top few prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft class. It would have been shocking to think that he could fall all the way to the middle of the first round. As the draft approaches, it seems more and more likely that the Cardinals will have the chance to draft the Michigan product.
Johnson is a dominant cornerback with prototypical size and excellent instincts. He's best suited for zone coverage, playing on the boundary of the defense. He often anticipates throws and jumps routes just as the quarterback is passing the ball. Johnson would thrive in Arizona's zone-heavy system.
Mid-round swing: Darien Porter, Iowa State
If Arizona chooses to address other needs in the first round of the draft, there are quality cornerback options further down the board.
Iowa State product Darien Porter started his career as a wide receiver before transitioning to the defensive side of the ball. His lack of experience shows itself on tape, but Porter has the speed and length to succeed in the NFL. PFF currently has Porter ranked eighth among cornerbacks, and 62nd overall in the class.
Late-round sleeper: Zy Alexander, LSU
There is a non-zero chance that the Cardinals double dip at the cornerback position in this year's draft. The class is relatively deep, with potential contributors scattered throughout the later rounds.
Zy Alexander, the former LSU cornerback, thrives in zone coverage. He has the instincts and ball skills to earn playing time in the NFL. Alexander struggled at the NFL Combine, causing him to slide down draft boards. Still, the Cardinals should seriously consider taking him late in the draft.