PHX Reporter

The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for the 2025 NFL Draft with speculation surrounding their 16th overall pick. As the draft approaches, head coach Jonathan Gannon describes the moment as an "exciting time to be a Cardinal."

This year's draft follows the Cardinals' 2024 season, which concluded with an 8-9 record. Unlike last year when Arizona had the fourth overall pick, this year, Cardinals' general manager Monti Ossenfort approaches the middle-of-the-draft selection with experts weighing in on potential picks.

One possibility is cornerback Jahdae Barron from Texas. He offers versatility, having played multiple positions in the secondary without allowing a touchdown during the 2024 season. Experts like Mel Kiper Jr. and Field Yates from ESPN praise Barron's speed and interception record. Josh Edwards from CBS Sports compares Barron's versatility to Trent McDuffie, highlighting his ability to play both on the boundary and in the slot.

Another candidate for the Cardinals is Michigan's Will Johnson. Initially dismissed due to needs elsewhere on the defense, Johnson's draft stock rose despite a turf toe injury. Rob Rang from Fox Sports and Danny Heifetz from The Ringer emphasize Johnson's instinct and ball skills, likening him to a potential shutdown cornerback despite mixed performances last season.

Defensive tackle Kenneth Grant from Michigan also draws attention. Although the Cardinals recently reinforced their defensive line with veterans like Calais Campbell, experts argue that Grant's run-stop capability and potential mentorship under Campbell could benefit Arizona.

Wide receiver Matthew Golden from Texas presents another option. With a standout performance at the scouting combine and a strong 2024 season, experts like Ben Arthur from Fox Sports and Gennaro Filice from NFL.com suggest Golden could complement existing receivers like Marvin Harrison Jr.

Lastly, Georgia's Mykel Williams represents a potential edge rusher for Arizona. His frame and skill set make him appealing, and despite an ankle injury in 2024, experts like Dane Brugler from The Athletic regard him highly for his defensive potential.

As the draft date nears, speculation continues about these prospects and others, including OL Josh Simmons, OL Kelvin Banks Jr., OG Tyler Booker, EDGE Mike Green, DT Derrick Harmon, and LB Jihaad Campbell.