Cardinals news for June 2025: Rookie Will Johnson's surprise return from injury sparks hope after Sean Murphy-Bunting's loss. Can he save the defense?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Just when the news of starting cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting's season-ending injury cast a dark cloud over the desert, a surprising ray of light has emerged. Rookie cornerback Will Johnson, who wasn't expected to be ready for the start of training camp, isn't just back—he's turning heads. His ahead-of-schedule return is the biggest story out of minicamp, symbolizing a broader defensive overhaul that has defined the Cardinals' offseason and sparked hope for the 2025 campaign.
They're calling rookie Will Johnson a potential 'secret weapon' for the defense. After his remarkable recovery, it's easy to see why.
Nobody saw this coming. Will Johnson's resilience has been the talk of the team, as the rookie cornerback defied his recovery timeline to join minicamp. For a secondary reeling from the loss of Sean Murphy-Bunting, Johnson's emergence is more than just a feel-good story; it's a potential season-saver. Coaches and analysts are already buzzing about his versatility and skill set, touting him as a possible 'secret weapon' who could revolutionize the Cardinals' defensive backfield. His progress is now the most critical storyline to watch as the team looks to patch a significant hole.
The defensive transformation extends deep into the trenches. The Cardinals officially locked up their future on the interior by signing first-round pick Walter Nolen to his rookie contract. As the top-ranked defensive lineman in his class, the 21-year-old is expected to be a disruptive force from day one. He's joined by new edge rusher Josh Sweat, whose energy and leadership have been immediately felt in practice. Together, Nolen and Sweat represent a powerful one-two punch aimed at completely revitalizing a pass rush that has struggled in recent years.
To guide the youth movement, a legend has returned home. Fan favorite Calais Campbell is back in the building, this time in a mentorship role. Head Coach Jonathan Gannon has emphasized Campbell's immense value, not just for his on-field knowledge but for his presence in the locker room. For young players like Walter Nolen, having a future Hall of Famer to learn from is an invaluable asset. Campbell's return bridges the gap between the Cardinals' past and its promising future, ensuring the new generation understands the standard.
All this positive momentum will be put to the test immediately. The recently released 2025 NFL schedule is a certified gauntlet, featuring a tough NFC West and a slate of playoff-caliber opponents. After an 8-9 finish in 2024, the pressure is on Jonathan Gannon in his third year to prove that these offseason improvements can translate into wins against top competition. The Cardinals have built what looks like a better roster on paper, but navigating this schedule will be the ultimate measure of their progress.
The pieces are being meticulously put into place. A revamped defensive line, a veteran mentor, and an inspiring rookie in the secondary have injected a palpable sense of hope into the Cardinals' offseason. But the optimism of June will soon face the harsh reality of a brutal 2025 schedule. Will this new-look defense be the force that elevates Arizona from a team on the rise to a true contender? We'll get our first real clues when training camp kicks into high gear.
