The Arizona Cardinals, heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, are at a critical juncture in their rebuild. After a tumultuous 2024 season, where they finished with a subpar record, the Cardinals are looking to infuse their roster with talent that can both immediately contribute and set the foundation for long-term success. With the first overall pick in the draft, Arizona has a golden opportunity to address key weaknesses and fill holes that have plagued the team for years. In this article, we’ll explore three players who would be ideal fits for the Arizona Cardinals in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Arizona Cardinals are in a transitional phase, having entered a rebuilding period with the aim of not only being competitive but also creating a roster that can contend for championships in the future. Their roster needs are varied, but they can be generally summarized as a mix of improving the offensive line, bolstering the defensive front seven, and securing a top-tier playmaker. Given the opportunity to select first overall in the 2025 draft, the Cardinals are in a position to land a generational talent that can provide an instant impact while helping to cultivate future success. With several potential game-changers on the board, the Cardinals will need to carefully consider their options to ensure they make the most of this pivotal selection.
A popular choice for the Cardinals has been to go after a franchise quarterback, but with Kyler Murray still on the roster, a new signal-caller may not be the top priority. Instead, Arizona might look to upgrade their defense, where they’ve been lacking a consistent pass rush and have struggled to contain opposing offenses in recent seasons. Alternatively, the Cardinals could look to build around Murray by adding weapons to their offense, whether it’s a top-tier wide receiver or an offensive lineman who can help solidify their front.
In light of these considerations, the first player to discuss is a defensive powerhouse who could reshape the entire Arizona defense. One such player is the consensus number one overall pick in many mock drafts: Edge Rusher J.T. Tuimoloau out of Ohio State.
Tuimoloau is the type of game-changing edge rusher who can immediately impact games with his ability to disrupt the quarterback. He possesses a blend of strength, agility, and awareness that allows him to shed blockers and rush with a relentless motor. Arizona’s defense has struggled with consistent pressure on the quarterback in recent years, and adding a player like Tuimoloau could not only help them generate more sacks but also force opposing quarterbacks into uncomfortable situations. His ability to both rush the passer and stop the run would allow Arizona to play more versatile defensive schemes and better match up against the high-powered offenses in the NFC West, such as the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.
Tuimoloau’s dominance off the edge has been showcased throughout his college career. As a former five-star recruit, he has continued to evolve into one of the most complete pass rushers in recent memory. With the ability to line up anywhere on the defensive line, his versatility is a major asset. His combination of size (6’5”, 270 pounds) and speed gives him an edge over most offensive tackles, making him an instant threat at the next level. For Arizona, bringing in a player who can consistently create pressure off the edge could change the dynamics of their defense, elevating the play of their entire unit.
Additionally, Arizona needs to consider their long-term plans for the defense. Having a high-caliber edge rusher like Tuimoloau would not only provide immediate help but would also serve as the foundation for the defensive line for years to come. With so many high-octane quarterbacks in the NFC West, the ability to pressure and sack the quarterback regularly is crucial. Tuimoloau has shown that he is more than capable of meeting those demands, making him a perfect fit for Arizona’s needs.
Another top option for Arizona in the first round could be Offensive Tackle Caleb Williams from USC. While the Cardinals have Kyler Murray under contract for the foreseeable future, protecting him and ensuring he has time in the pocket is vital to his success. Williams is regarded as one of the most technically sound offensive linemen in the 2025 draft class. Standing at 6’6” and weighing around 320 pounds, Williams has the size and strength to dominate at the NFL level. His ability to neutralize top-tier pass rushers and maintain a strong presence in the running game would give Arizona’s offense the stability it needs.
Murray, despite his talent, has often been forced to play under pressure due to inconsistent offensive line play. This has led to a diminished ability to read the field and make plays when under duress. By bringing in a plug-and-play tackle like Williams, the Cardinals could provide Murray with better protection and open up more lanes in the running game. Furthermore, securing an offensive tackle who can excel in both pass protection and run blocking would balance out the offense and give new head coach Jonathan Gannon the flexibility to install a more dynamic playbook.
Williams’ skill set would complement Arizona’s current offensive weapons, including wide receiver Marquise Brown and running back James Conner. With a solid offensive line, Arizona would be able to establish a more consistent running game, which in turn would open up the passing attack. A stable, well-rounded offensive line is crucial in the modern NFL, and Williams would be a key piece in ensuring the Arizona Cardinals’ offense is firing on all cylinders. In terms of team fit, Williams’ ability to anchor the left tackle position for years to come would give Arizona a foundation for success as they continue to develop Murray into a top-tier quarterback.
Finally, the Arizona Cardinals may want to consider adding a wide receiver to their offense in the first round. A player like Wide Receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. out of Ohio State is an enticing prospect who could instantly make an impact on Arizona’s passing game. Harrison is one of the most polished wide receivers in recent memory and is expected to be a high selection in the 2025 draft. His size (6’4”, 205 pounds) and elite athleticism give him the ability to dominate at every level of the field. He has exceptional route-running skills, great hands, and an ability to make spectacular catches in key moments.
For Arizona, pairing Harrison with Kyler Murray could create one of the most dangerous quarterback-wide receiver duos in the NFL. Arizona’s receiving corps has struggled with consistency in recent years, and adding a player of Harrison’s caliber would provide Murray with a true number one option. With Marquise Brown and rookie tight end Trey McBride already on the roster, Harrison would add another layer of versatility to the offense. His ability to stretch the field and make plays on contested catches would be a significant asset for Arizona, who has often struggled to score points when they need them most.
Harrison’s football IQ and maturity at a young age suggest he is more than just a physical specimen. He has a deep understanding of the game and is able to read defenses and adjust his route-running accordingly. This would help Murray, who often has to make split-second decisions, knowing that Harrison would be in the right place at the right time. With Harrison on the field, Arizona could look to create a dynamic aerial attack that would complement their other offensive weapons and create balance in their offensive game plan.
The Arizona Cardinals are entering a pivotal draft where their selection in the first round could set the tone for the future of their franchise. Whether it’s selecting a dominant edge rusher like J.T. Tuimoloau to bolster their defense, adding an offensive tackle like Caleb Williams to protect Kyler Murray, or selecting a wide receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr. to give the offense a much-needed playmaker, each of these players presents a unique opportunity to improve the roster immediately. As the Cardinals enter the 2025 season, their draft pick will be an important piece in their quest to return to contention. With a smart and strategic selection in the first round, the Arizona Cardinals can lay the foundation for long-term success and a competitive future in the NFC West.