Week 17 sets up as one of the most demanding assignments of Will Johnson’s young NFL career, should he indeed suit up on Sunday (currently questionable).
A matchup fit for a potential shootout, for Arizona, Johnson’s role on the perimeter will be central to whether the ballgame stays competitive deep into the fourth quarter, or gets ugly quickly against Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins.
A major bright spot for Arizona this fall, Johnson, when healthy, has been one of the more impressive young corners in football this season. His transition from the secondary at the University of Michigan to an NFL starter has been marked by poise, easy recognition, and a calmness at the line of scrimmage that rarely betrays his experience level.
Arizona has trusted him with real responsibility, and Week 17 represents the most unforgiving environment yet: a hostile road setting, elite quarterback play, and two receivers who stress coverage in different ways on every snap.
Against Chase, Johnson will be tested by explosive releases, sudden breaks, and elite strength after the catch. Chase is at his most dangerous when corners lose leverage or hesitate at the top of routes, and Burrow has no hesitation attacking single coverage if he senses even a half-step of separation.
For Higgins, he presents a different challenge altogether. At 6-foot-4, he thrives on contested catches and back-shoulder targets, areas where he and Burrow are as synchronized as any duo in football. On the opposite side of the coin, Johnson’s ball skills and timing at the catch point will be under the microscope, particularly on third downs and in the red zone, where Higgins often becomes Burrow’s primary read in his progression.
Even more, what elevates the matchup is the sheer volume of high-leverage snaps Johnson is likely to see.
Cincinnati’s offense forces defenses to pick their poison, and Arizona may have no choice but to leave Johnson isolated to protect elsewhere, especially with Budda Baker (concussion) already ruled out. Those reps -- snap after snap against Chase and Higgins -- are invaluable developmental tests for a rookie corner with clear, potential superstar, long-term upside.
Even if the stat line isn't pristine, Johnson’s performance will be judged on competitiveness, resilience, and his ability to respond after giving up plays -- it won't be a perfect afternoon.
In a potential shootout, that mental toughness matters as much as coverage ability, and Week 17 is less about perfection and more about proving he belongs on the same field as the NFL’s elite of elites.