The Arizona Cardinals entered the offseason needing to bolster their secondary, particularly due to the absence of a definitive top cornerback. Fortunately, they tackled the issue in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting two Big Ten standouts, Will Johnson and Denzel Burke. The duo now joins a youthful group of corners that includes Garrett Williams, Max Melton, Starling Thomas V, and Elijah Jones.
The Arizona Cardinals’ veteran DB must compete for the starting job
Sean Murphy-Bunting won’t be guaranteed a starting cornerback role this offseason and will need to earn his spot through competition. In his first year with Arizona, he put together a solid campaign, leading the team in interceptions and ranking third in pass breakups. Over 15 starts, he tallied 52 tackles, three interceptions, and five pass deflections, while allowing a 70.7% completion rate, 461 receiving yards, two touchdowns, and an 84.1 passer rating.
Unfortunately, his upcoming season will now be delayed.
The Arizona Cardinals have devastating news for their $25.5 million starter
Ian Rapoport reports that the Cardinals have placed Sean Murphy-Bunting on the reserve/non-football injury list, though the specifics of his injury remain undisclosed. As a result, Murphy-Bunting is set to miss the entire 2025 season.
If the coaching staff feels confident in the current roster, the younger players will battle for the two starting outside cornerback spots. The competition features Will Johnson, Max Melton, Starling Thomas V, Elijah Jones, and Denzel Burke, with Garrett Williams likely manning the slot. However, if there’s concern about the depth, the team could explore signing a veteran free agent.