PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals are navigating the 2025 NFL Draft season with multiple potential picks in sight. Coming off an 8-9 season, the team holds the 16th pick, a departure from their previous year's fourth pick, under the guidance of General Manager Monti Ossenfort.

With the recent signature of veteran Calais Campbell, the Cardinals' draft focus might be shifting. Michigan's Kenneth Grant, earlier a favorite among experts, is now less frequently linked to the Cardinals.

Among the potential picks is Derrick Harmon, a defensive tackle from Oregon, who has gained traction in mock drafts after earlier appearing to be a lesser choice. Harmon led in pressures among interior defensive linemen in 2024 and offers versatility according to NFL experts like Nick Baumgardner from The Athletic and Chris Trapasso from CBS Sports.

Alabama's Jihaad Campbell stands out as a leading off-ball linebacker candidate. Known for his tackling skills, Campbell impressed in 2024 with 106 tackles, but his recent labrum surgery poses some concern. Experts like Ian Valentino from The 33rd Team and Dane Brugler from The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny see potential in Campbell fitting into Coach Jonathan Gannon’s system.

Offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. from Texas is another prospect. His flexibility to adapt to various line positions makes him appealing, particularly with current team dynamics involving Paris Johnson Jr. and Jonah Williams. NFL.com's Maurice Jones-Drew and Chad Reuter highlight Banks' role in protecting quarterback Kyler Murray.

Another major consideration is Michigan's cornerback Will Johnson. His size assists in challenging top receivers, and his potential pairing with current cornerback Garrett Williams could strengthen the team's secondary. Sports Illustrated's Gilberto Manzano and PFF’s Mason Cameron note the strategic advantage of adding Johnson.

Ole Miss's Walter Nolen, a defensive tackle known for his run-stopping ability and size, recently visited the Cardinals. His potential to rejuvenate Arizona’s defensive line is noted by analysts Tom Fornelli from CBS Sports and Geoff Schwartz from Fox Sports.

Numerous other players have also been connected to the Cardinals in mock drafts, suggesting a broad scope of strategic options for the team as they approach the draft.