‘Elite’ Coverage Instincts and Intelligence Make Will Johnson the Right Pick for the Arizona Cardinals
In today’s NFL, where high-octane passing offenses dominate, having a lockdown corner is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s precisely why Will Johnson, the standout cornerback from Michigan, is the perfect pick for the Arizona Cardinals in the upcoming NFL Draft. With elite coverage instincts, off-the-charts football IQ, and a physical skill set that matches up with the league’s best receivers, Johnson has all the tools to transform the Cardinals’ secondary into a formidable unit.
Standing at 6’2″ and weighing around 200 pounds, Johnson brings the ideal physical makeup for a modern-day NFL cornerback. But what separates him from others in this draft class isn’t just his size or athleticism—it’s his intelligence and instincts. Johnson consistently diagnoses plays before they fully develop. He reads quarterbacks like a veteran safety and positions himself in ways that force quarterbacks to think twice before throwing in his direction. His ability to anticipate routes, adjust mid-play, and mirror receivers is a rare trait, especially for someone so early in their career.
Arizona’s defense has been in a state of transition. While there are some promising young players on the roster, the secondary has lacked a true number-one corner—someone who can shadow the top wideouts in the NFC West, like Cooper Kupp or DK Metcalf. Will Johnson brings that CB1 potential. His experience playing in man and zone schemes at Michigan gives him the versatility to fit seamlessly into defensive coordinator Nick Rallis’ system, which relies heavily on disguise and adaptability. Johnson’s football IQ means he won’t just execute a play; he’ll elevate it.
During his college career, Johnson routinely faced top-tier competition and consistently rose to the occasion. His ability to remain disciplined in coverage while still being aggressive at the catch point is what coaches covet. He’s not just a corner who reacts—he’s one who dictates. That assertiveness would give the Cardinals an edge, particularly against teams that thrive on timing routes and rhythm-based passing attacks.
Beyond the tape, Johnson is known as a leader and a film junkie. He’s the kind of player who sets the tone in the locker room and raises the standard for preparation. For a young Cardinals team trying to rebuild under head coach Jonathan Gannon, having a cornerstone player who leads by example is invaluable.
With two first-round picks, Arizona has the opportunity to address both sides of the ball. Pairing a dynamic offensive weapon with a shutdown defender like Johnson could accelerate their rebuild and give them foundational players on each side. In a division loaded with offensive firepower, the Cardinals must counter with elite defenders.
Will Johnson isn’t just a safe pick—he’s a smart, high-upside selection with the potential to anchor Arizona’s secondary for the next decade. His combination of instincts, intelligence, and leadership make him the right fit at the right time for a team in need of defensive identity.