In the 2025 NFL Draft, addressing the cornerback position is not merely a discussion point for the Arizona Cardinals; it is an urgent necessity.This offseason, the Cardinals have made significant improvements to their defensive line, yet their secondary remains a weak link.
As they aim to establish themselves as a formidable competitor in the NFC West, it is crucial for Arizona to focus on acquiring elite cornerback talent through the draft.This year’s draft offers a prime opportunity to achieve that goal.
Although the defensive front has been bolstered by seasoned players such as Josh Sweat and Calais Campbell, the Cardinals’ pass defense continues to be a significant liability.
In 2024, they ranked 27th in defensive EPA per play, highlighting the critical need for enhancements in the secondary.
Let us explore how Arizona can leverage the draft to strengthen their defense and position themselves as serious contenders in 2025.
Why Cornerback is Arizona’s Top Draft Priority
Considering their performance as one of the least effective defenses in the league last season, it is understandable that Arizona is looking to the draft for improvements.
While the front seven seems robust, the secondary, especially the cornerback position, exhibits significant weaknesses.
Despite the presence of promising players like Garrett Williams and Marco Wilson, the team has suffered due to insufficient depth and experience in this area.
Issues such as missed tackles, blown assignments, and inadequate man coverage have all played a role in Arizona’s difficulties.
Additionally, the Cardinals permitted over 230 passing yards per game in 2024, ranking them among the lowest in the league for pass defense.
Therefore, the selection of a dynamic cornerback or possibly two in the 2025 draft is not merely an option; it is essential. Addressing this gap is crucial for the defense to develop into a cohesive unit.
Building on a Solid Foundation
Prior to exploring cornerback prospects, it is essential to recognize the solid groundwork that has already been established.The Cardinals’ front office has executed several noteworthy moves during free agency.
A standout decision was the acquisition of edge rusher Josh Sweat, who signed a four-year contract worth $76.4 million, significantly impacting the team’s dynamics.
Sweat not only possesses exceptional pass rushing skills but also reunites with Jonathan Gannon, his previous defensive coordinator in Philadelphia, who is now the head coach of the Cardinals.
This existing rapport is likely to yield immediate results, particularly in light of Sweat’s impressive performance in the Super Bowl, where he recorded 2.5 sacks against Patrick Mahomes.
However, despite these significant enhancements, achieving defensive success necessitates a well rounded approach. A formidable front seven can only be effective if the secondary is capable of maintaining coverage.
Therefore, the Cardinals must now turn their attention to the 2025 NFL Draft to identify cornerback prospects that can address this vulnerability.
Top Cornerback Prospects the Cardinals Should Target
The Arizona Cardinals should focus on acquiring top-tier cornerback talent in the 2025 NFL Draft to strengthen their weak secondary.
Pursuing high-caliber prospects such as Terrion Arnold, Cooper DeJean, and Kamari Lassiter could yield both immediate contributions and enduring stability in this critical position.
Terrion Arnold Alabama
Terrion Arnold is prominently featured on numerous draft boards, and justifiably so. The Alabama standout possesses an exceptional blend of size, speed, and instinctual play.
Renowned for his tenacious press coverage and agile movement, Arnold has the potential to compete for a starting position in Arizona Cardinals right away.
Moreover, his skill in tracking elite receivers throughout the field aligns seamlessly with Gannon’s defensive strategy, which places a strong emphasis on man coverage.
Should the Cardinals have the opportunity to draft him, they should seize it without hesitation.
Cooper DeJean Iowa
An additional promising candidate is Cooper DeJean. As a genuine playmaker, DeJean possesses exceptional ball hawking abilities and is recognized for his capacity to alter the course of games through crucial interceptions and deflections.
What distinguishes DeJean is his adaptability. He has played both on the boundary and in the slot, providing Arizona’s defensive strategy with added flexibility.
Furthermore, he is a proactive tackler, a quality that is essential for a team that faced challenges in run support from its cornerbacks.
Kamari Lassiter Georgia
Kamari Lassiter may not possess the same eye catching plays as Arnold or DeJean, yet his technical skills and football intelligence are outstanding.
During his time at Georgia, he consistently neutralized threats on his side of the field and demonstrated composure that belied his age.
His aggressive playing style and reliable tackling could position him as a dependable starter for the long haul.
In a division that includes prominent receivers such as DK Metcalf and Cooper Kupp, Lassiter’s physicality would be a valuable addition.
How Josh Sweat’s Deal Influences the Draft Strategy
The acquisition of Josh Sweat clearly indicates that Arizona is no longer willing to wait. The team is eager to achieve immediate success and is making significant investments in established talent to facilitate this goal.
More importantly, the terms of Sweat’s contract provide the Cardinals with financial flexibility.
With a potential exit option after two years and a void year set for 2029, the agreement does not restrict the team’s salary cap.
This strategic approach implies that the Cardinals are likely to select a cornerback in the draft who can contribute right away on a rookie contract.
Given that elite defensive backs are seldom available in free agency without substantial costs, the draft remains the most effective avenue for enhancement.
Additionally, Sweat’s addition should alleviate pressure on any rookie cornerback, as quarterbacks will have reduced time to release the ball, thereby increasing the chances of success for the corners.
Drafting for Scheme Fit and Long Term Success
Arizona’s defense, guided by Jonathan Gannon, prioritizes adaptability, assertiveness, and tenacity.
Consequently, the focus extends beyond merely selecting talented players; it involves identifying those who align well with the team’s philosophy.
Gannon favors cornerbacks who can effectively press at the line of scrimmage, maintain close coverage, and are willing to tackle in open space. Prospects such as Arnold, DeJean, and Lassiter meet these criteria.
Additionally, their experience in intricate collegiate defensive schemes suggests a relatively smooth transition to the professional level.
Looking forward, the combination of a rookie cornerback alongside Garrett Williams could establish a dynamic, youthful partnership for Arizona to develop over the coming years.
This strategy would also enhance the team’s ability to rotate players efficiently, reducing dependence on veteran players who may be nearing the end of their careers.
Cornerback Depth in the 2025 Draft
The depth of cornerback talent in this year’s draft is particularly impressive. Even after the first round, there are numerous promising prospects with the potential to evolve into starting players.
Khyree Jackson Oregon
Measuring 6 feet 3 inches tall with extended reach, Jackson possesses the physical attributes that NFL scouts highly covet. While he may be unrefined, his athletic potential and promise present him as an intriguing prospect for Day 2 or Day 3 of the draft. With the right coaching, he has the potential to develop into a significant asset.
Jason Marshall Jr.Florida
Jason Marshall possesses experience from the SEC and a keen instinct for the game. He is a tenacious defender with impressive size and speed; however, he requires further development in zone coverage. Nevertheless, he has the potential to be shaped into a dependable CB2.
Max Melton Rutgers
Melton is a lesser-known player who has the potential to make an impact. He possesses speed, tenacity, and an ability to interfere with passing lanes. For a team like Arizona, which requires additional depth and competition, Melton would be a valuable asset.
Expert Editorial Comment
Arizona has demonstrated its dedication to defensive prowess with significant free agent acquisitions. Now, the next step is to finalize their strategy.
The 2025 NFL Draft presents a crucial opportunity for the Arizona Cardinals to secure a cornerback that could shape the future of the franchise.
A well-considered choice could enable the Cardinals to construct a defense that not only competes but excels.
While numerous teams focus on enhancing their offensive capabilities, Arizona’s strategy reflects an understanding that championships are frequently secured through strong defensive play.
As the draft date approaches, attention will be focused on their selection for bolstering their secondary.