The NFL Draft is where teams build dynasties. It's where they create their futures. It's where they find an edge over division rivals.
The window for player visits is finally closing, presenting a clearer picture of each team's top prospects.
As Ian Rapoport reported, the Seattle Seahawks visited with Michigan cornerback prospect Will Johnson. Johnson, coincidentally, also visited the Arizona Cardinals earlier in the offseason.
Arizona Cardinals and Seattle Seahawks both show interest in Michigan CB Will Johnson
After hitting the defensive front hard through free agency, the Cardinals are still in need of help in the secondary. Cornerback is one of their primary needs heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.
There are options available throughout the draft, but Arizona seems to have a keen interest in Will Johnson.
The Cardinals have an opportunity to steal Johnson from their division rivals, the Seattle Seahawks. The Seahawks also have a major need at cornerback and have shown interest in Johnson. Arizona picks 16th, just two spots before Seattle.
Of course, the interest of a division rival is not a true reason to draft a player. The Cardinals will select the prospect whom they believe is best for their team, as they should.
But it wouldn't hurt if that selection happened to be the one the Seahawks were looking to make.
How would Will Johnson fit in the Cardinals defense?
Will Johnson is one of the top cornerback prospects in this year's draft class. He has an ideal frame, but his biggest strength is his ability to anticipate throws and break on the ball quickly. He had nine interceptions and three touchdowns across his three seasons at Michigan.
Johnson is at his best in zone coverage on the defensive boundary, when he can keep his eyes on the opposing quarterback. Scouts have expressed concerns about Johsnon's speed, but his tape shows the instincts necessary to make up for any defecits in athleticism.
In Jonathan Gannon's zone-heavy defense, Johnson would be an immediate fit. He would likely start at outside cornerback, with either Max Melton or Sean Murphy-Bunting on the opposite side and Garrett Williams in the slot.
Johnson would give the Cardinals the true top cornerback that they have lacked since Patrick Peterson's departure.
By drafting Will Johnson, the Cardinals would complete a set of yound defensive backs capable of becoming a dominant unit. Arizona's defense would transform from one of the league's worst units to one of its best in just one offseason.