Rookie Sensation Will Johnson Is Taking Over the NFL in Cornerback Rankings

Rookie cornerback Will Johnson has emerged because the spine of the Arizona Cardinals‘ protection, an instance of how expertise and laborious work can remodel a struggling secondary even within the midst of adversity.

The 22-year-old’s spectacular breakout season has made him one of many high cornerbacks within the NFL.

Will Johnson’s Climbing the Ranks to the Top of the NFL’s Cornerbacks

As reported by Pro Football Focus, Johnson has a stellar 84.5 total grade, second-best amongst all NFL cornerbacks. Even after sitting out two contests with a groin harm, he’s tied for the league lead with 5 cross deflections.

Gannon, the pinnacle coach, additionally singled out Johnson’s maturity and flexibility, praising how rapidly he takes teaching into motion.

“He takes the coaching, and he applies it. He doesn’t make the same mistake twice, typically. I’m pretty hard on him, but he’s smart. He’s tough. He’s got what you’re looking for in a corner. He’s done a good job since he’s been here. And again, I think he’s going to continue to ascend the more he plays.”

Overcoming Injuries and Adversity within the Cardinals’ Secondary

According to Burn City Sports, the Cardinals went into the 2025 season with a depleted secondary. Two premier cornerbacks had been out for Week 1, and Garrett Williams ended up on the injured reserve record after hurting his knee in Week 2.

With the secondary in shambles, Arizona desperately wanted a playmaker, and Johnson crammed that function in methods few anticipated.

Johnson managed to cowl elite receivers, learn offenses, and give you huge stops has stabilized a protection that was beforehand on its knees. Johnson’s poise beneath strain and management have seen him earn himself the CB1 place, a feat for a rookie within the league. He did all that within the “most unforgiving place within the NFL.”

Leader from Day One

Having developed at Michigan’s soccer powerhouse program, Johnson was ready to guide when he arrived within the NFL. The faculty expertise hardened him right into a mentally robust, disciplined participant with a pure really feel for the sport. That preparation has carried over into the Cardinals’ system and not using a hitch, as he is gained the respect of teammates and coaches rapidly.

Gannon praised Johnson’s management presence, noting the younger cornerback’s demeanor is true to the crew’s id: good, robust, relentless.