The Arizona Cardinals have signed four of their draft picks, including outside linebacker Jordan Burch, cornerback Denzel Burke, offensive lineman Hayden Conner, and safety Kitan Crawford. The signings were announced on the eve of the team’s rookie minicamp.
All players agreed to standard four-year contracts extending through the 2028 season. Despite acquiring Josh Sweat during free agency, the Cardinals sought to enhance their pass-rushing options by adding Burch. A third-round pick, Burch made a significant impact in college football after transferring to Oregon, recording 18.5 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks over 24 games.
Denzel Burke returns to his home state as a fifth-round selection by the Cardinals. An Arizona native who played high school football at Brophy Prep and Saguaro, Burke spent five years at Ohio State where he started 51 games. His experience playing against top-tier receivers is expected to be an asset as he begins his NFL career.
Hayden Conner was the only offensive player drafted by the Cardinals this year. Standing at 6-foot-6, Conner was recognized as a semifinalist for the Joe Moore Award in consecutive seasons and did not allow a sack on 617 pass-blocking snaps in 2024 according to PFF. He will compete for a position as an offensive guard but possesses the flexibility to cover all five positions on the offensive line.
Seventh-round pick Kitan Crawford also signed his contract with the team. Known for his special teams prowess with over 1,010 snaps in college, Crawford will join a squad that places significant emphasis on special teams play. He will have opportunities to learn from veterans like Budda Baker and Joey Blount.
Three other draftees—Walter Nolen III, Will Johnson, and Cody Simon—have yet to finalize their rookie contracts.
