Will Johnson, the Arizona Cardinals’ second-round draft pick, has been assigned jersey number 0, a significant choice for a player expected to excel as a cornerback. Johnson joined other rookies at the Dignity Health Training Center for physicals before the start of minicamp.
Johnson’s college number 2 was unavailable, as it is currently worn by linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. When asked about his new number, Johnson said, “I wanted to keep it single digit. Yeah, I’m going to just say that for now.”
Coach Jonathan Gannon expressed surprise and satisfaction at securing Johnson with the 47th overall pick in the draft. Gannon noted during an interview with Adam Schein on SiriusXM that there was only a “.02 percent” chance of Johnson being available when they picked. He praised Johnson as “a starting corner” with “phenomenal” intangibles and intelligence.
Despite not being selected in the first round, which left him frustrated initially, Johnson appeared positive on his first day with the team. “I think I’ve been able to move on,” he stated. “It’s just motivation.”
Johnson joins several Ohio State alumni in his rookie class, including linebacker Cody Simon and cornerback Denzel Burke. Although from rival Michigan, he has developed friendships with some teammates during offseason training.
The Cardinals’ rookie minicamp will serve as an orientation rather than intensive practice sessions. This approach aims to familiarize newcomers with team operations before more rigorous training begins alongside veteran players.
Johnson remains focused on contributing to the team and possibly earning a starting position as his career progresses. He expressed enthusiasm about joining the Cardinals: “Happy to be here, happy to get to work, and happy to see what’s to come.”
