The Arizona Cardinals selected cornerback Will Johnson as the 47th overall pick in the recent NFL Draft, marking a significant milestone in his football career. On draft day, Johnson was crushed, infuriated and outraged. Currently, he has turned those feelings into inspiration as he begins his NFL path. Both Johnson’s height and weight are attractive, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 194 pounds. His top-notch speed, length, and explosiveness should make him an immediate contributor on the Cardinals’ defense.
Head Coach Jonathan Gannon shared during the pre-draft process his excitement over Johnson’s “elite coverage instincts,” something that was obvious when studying him. On Johnson’s rare talent for playing the ball so well, Gannon said it was a skill that separated him from the pack. Johnson’s height and length create optimal traits for him to run with bigger receivers and implement advanced coverage techniques. Gannon hopes that will take some pressure off Johnson as he makes the jump to the pro level.
As Johnson participates in the Cardinals’ offseason program, he is immersing himself in the team’s playbook and engaging in virtual meetings with position coach Ryan Smith. These housekeeping measures are important as he makes the leap from the college game to the NFL. Gannon admitted there’ll be a learning curve for Johnson, but added one of the adjustments is “big for those guys. There’s precious little time to catch up over the down to win that down up here.
Johnson, like Simmons and Buda Baker, is excited about his newfound role in the Cardinals’ new defensive scheme, one that Gannon says sounds like a “cornerback’s dream.” He admired Johnson’s willingness to get up and confront rivals face to face. More than the flashy plays, he pointed out Johnson’s ability in reading the quarterback, further displaying his type of versatility in the game.
During training, Johnson will experience the speed of the NFL in offense vs. defense drills during Phase 3 of the offseason program. This kind of exposure is paramount to his development and ability to adapt to the quick faced culture of the NFL. Gannon assured that he and his coaching staff will work diligently to mold Johnson into the cornerback they envision for the team.
Gannon made it clear that his defense would need to be able to adapt to opponents’ strengths. “We give those guys the freedom to play with alternative solutions, so to speak,” he clarified. This level of flexibility opens up opportunities for players like Johnson to maximize their strengths while doing their part within the structure of a cohesive defense.
For Johnson, becoming familiar with this new system has been a thoroughly enjoyable endeavor. “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,” he said. His eagerness to continue learning and making impactful plays reflects his commitment to success in the NFL.
With offseason training still ahead of him, Johnson’s attention is set on sharpening his skills and football IQ. The Cardinals’ coaching staff is sure that, given motivation and direction, he’ll succeed in his fresh setting.
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