Will Johnson might have fallen in the draft, but at least he landed in a scheme he believes will fit him like a glove.
"Super exciting. I mean, that scheme is amazing," the Arizona Cardinals rookie said Thursday. "It's a cornerback's dream. So, I'm excited to play in it. I'm excited to get comfortable with it. And just learn more about it. I've learned a good amount so far, so just continue to learn and get comfortable in it, and make a lot of plays."
With the Cardinals opening rookie minicamp on Friday, Johnson will have his first chance to really dive into the scheme of coach Jonathan Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis.
A potential top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Johnson fell to No. 47 overall in part due to concerns about his knee, NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported. Johnson has said since he was selected by the Cards that he’s healthy.
Joining a system that he believes will get the most out of his skill set, Johnson is using the draft fall as a proverbial chip on his shoulder.
"I've been able to move on, it's just motivation," Johnson said. "I know there's going to be something special here, so I'm excited for it."
Johnson is part of a significant defensive rejuvenation in the desert, which included adding Josh Sweat, Calais Campbell and Dalvin Tomlinson up front. The rookie corner pairs with 2024 second-round pick Max Melton and 2023 third-round nickel Garrett Williams in a young corner crew. With veteran playmaking safety Budda Baker flying around, it's a secondary with intriguing upside given their youth -- if the front can produce a pass rush.
