Make no mistake: Will Johnson is on a mission to make every NFL team regret overlooking him.
“Finna go kill [it],” said Johnson at the end of the YouTube video he posted on May 4, showing his tumultuous 2025 NFL Draft experience. Once projected to go in the top 15, Will didn't have a team until the second round when the Arizona Cardinals took him as the overall No. 47 pick.
"Arizona Finna Get A Dawg"
At the start of the video, Johnson is in high spirits, showing off his crisp Draft Day fit while reflecting on what the moment meant to him. “It’s a dream come true,” he says. “I mean, this is what you get ready for as a little kid.”
“You put in all the work to get to this moment,” he added. “So, you got to stay in the moment, take it all in, and you know, wherever you go, it’s God’s planning. And that’s what’s meant for you.”
But Johnson’s excitement turns to disappointment as the night wears on. Though he’s supportive and happy for other players (like Tetairoa McMillan) who go in the First Round, he’s clearly heartbroken when his name is not called by the end of the night.
The next day, after he and his family had flown back home to Ann Arbor, Michigan, Johnson finally got the call. “Sup, coach,” says Johnson, presumably to Johnathan Gannon. “I’m still a bit pissed off, but I’m happy to be a Cardinal, now.”
After a celebration with his family and friends, and the official call, Johnson gives his warning for the rest of the NFL. “They’re gonna have to pay for this s—t, I promise you,” says Will. “Arizona finna get a dawg.”
Will Johnson's Draft Day Roller Coaster
Johnson, who helped the Michigan Wolverines win the 2024 National Championship, is expected to be a major force on the Cardinals' defense.
The Cardinals usually run zone coverage with two deep safeties. This setup allows Johnson to adjust his plans depending on the play. With his height, speed and sensibility, it's kind of astounding that the Cardinals were able to land him.
How did it happen? Johnson's draft stock fell due to medical concerns. The Michigan native missed seven games in 2024 due to a turf toe injury, and he's dealt with knee and hamstring issues in the past. Johnson has since assured everyone that he's healthy.
"They were saying things about my knee and all that and I haven't really dealt with it in two years,” he remarked after the Draft, “so that's definitely frustrating, but it's all good."