The Arizona Cardinals are in the midst of a defensive transformation, one that could see a high-profile trade and a future franchise cornerstone collide in a potentially era-defining move. As speculation builds around the possibility of trading for veteran cornerback Jaire Alexander, the franchise also finds itself increasingly enamored with Will Johnson, the Michigan Wolverines standout who projects as a top-tier defensive back in the 2025 NFL Draft.
It’s an intriguing intersection of proven NFL excellence and promising collegiate potential, and Arizona may not have to choose between the two. With both short-term competitiveness and long-term sustainability in mind, the Cardinals are signaling a bold commitment to revitalizing their secondary. Let’s take a comprehensive look at why Arizona is interested in both players, how each would impact the franchise, and what scenarios could unfold in the months ahead.
Jaire Alexander: An Elite Veteran in Uncertain Waters
The rumors surrounding Jaire Alexander, a two-time Pro Bowler with the Green Bay Packers, have gained traction amid whispers of internal friction in Green Bay and a shifting defensive identity under new leadership. At 27 years old, Alexander remains one of the most technically refined and mentally sharp cornerbacks in the NFL.
Why the Cardinals Are Interested
For Arizona, Alexander represents more than just a top-tier cover corner—he’s a stabilizing force for a young and evolving defensive unit. Head coach Jonathan Gannon, a defensive-minded leader with a strong emphasis on secondary play, would be particularly drawn to Alexander’s ability to shut down top receivers in man coverage and lead by example.
Alexander is also an ideal fit for Arizona’s hybrid defensive schemes, often requiring corners to shadow receivers in complex zone-man disguises. His high football IQ, paired with elite short-area quickness and footwork, make him capable of immediately elevating the defense.
What It Would Take
Trading for Alexander won’t come cheap. The Packers are unlikely to part with him for anything less than a second-round pick and potentially more if multiple teams get involved. Additionally, his cap hit—just over $23 million in 2025—is significant, though Arizona has some flexibility due to its strategic salary cap positioning.
Still, general manager Monti Ossenfort would need to balance the cost of acquiring Alexander against the long-term vision of the franchise. Are the Cardinals ready to contend now, or is this a move intended to mentor the next generation while remaining competitive?
Enter Will Johnson: The Future of NFL Cornerbacking
If the Cardinals are aiming for long-term impact, there may be no better defensive prospect in the 2025 draft than Will Johnson.
A Star at Michigan
The 6-foot-2, 200-pound junior out of Michigan has drawn comparisons to some of the game’s best, including Patrick Surtain II and Marshon Lattimore. Johnson combines size, instincts, and physicality in a rare package, and has blossomed into one of college football’s premier shutdown defenders under the guidance of former Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh and now Sherrone Moore.
Last season, Johnson recorded 4 interceptions, 12 pass breakups, and allowed a passer rating under 60 when targeted—a jaw-dropping number in the Big Ten, where he regularly lined up against top NFL-bound receivers.
Fit in Arizona
Will Johnson would instantly become the cornerstone of the Cardinals’ secondary. With his length and closing speed, he fits Gannon’s preferred mold for a CB1. More importantly, he brings youth, athleticism, and leadership—qualities Arizona desperately needs as it builds around franchise quarterback Kyler Murray and a core of young playmakers on both sides of the ball.
Acquiring Johnson would require Arizona to be drafting in the top five—well within possibility depending on the upcoming season’s results or draft-day trades. The Cardinals have extra picks thanks to previous trades and have positioned themselves as movers on the draft board.
Scenarios in Motion: Trade, Draft, or Both?
It’s rare for a franchise to seriously consider investing in both a proven veteran and a potential rookie superstar at the same position. But the Cardinals’ defensive struggles in 2024, particularly in third-down conversions and red zone defense, have prompted urgent reevaluation.
Scenario 1: Trade for Alexander, Draft Offense
If Arizona trades for Jaire Alexander before or during the 2025 season and he proves to be the lockdown corner they envision, they may pivot toward drafting offensive talent—perhaps a premier wide receiver or left tackle—to support Kyler Murray. Alexander could also serve as a mentor to current young CBs such as Garrett Williams and Kei’Trel Clark.
This scenario places Arizona in a win-now window while preserving flexibility. However, it does little to address the long-term succession plan at cornerback unless Alexander plays at a Pro Bowl level into his 30s.
Scenario 2: Draft Will Johnson, Stay Patient
Should the Cardinals decline to trade for Alexander and instead target Will Johnson in the draft, they commit fully to a rebuild through youth. Johnson would start immediately and grow with the defensive unit. Gannon and defensive coordinator Nick Rallis would benefit from molding a prospect to their system from day one.
This patient approach may be more in line with the timeline of the Cardinals’ core. With Murray under contract and key players like Paris Johnson Jr., Trey McBride, and Marvin Harrison Jr. all ascending, Johnson could be a final piece in a homegrown contender.
Scenario 3: Go All In – Trade and Draft
There’s a third, more aggressive possibility. Arizona could trade for Jaire Alexander and draft Will Johnson. This would give the Cardinals a short-term lockdown tandem and a long-term developmental plan. Alexander could take the CB1 role while Johnson eases into the NFL, eventually overtaking the veteran once he’s ready.
While resource-intensive, this approach would signal the franchise’s belief in competing both now and in the future. Given Gannon’s belief in building from the back end forward, this may be the most philosophically aligned strategy.
The Gannon Effect: Defense First, Always
Jonathan Gannon’s fingerprints are all over these potential moves. His time as defensive coordinator in Philadelphia was marked by a fierce pass rush and an elite secondary. He understands that in today’s NFL, winning means having corners who can neutralize elite receivers and force quarterbacks into hesitation.
The 2024 Cardinals defense ranked near the bottom in opponent third-down conversion percentage (45.2%) and allowed too many explosive plays. Whether it’s through a veteran like Alexander or a top prospect like Johnson, Gannon knows a better secondary will have a ripple effect across the entire defense.
Building a Contender: Secondary as the Foundation
There’s a strategic elegance to building the defense from the secondary forward, especially with the offensive firepower Arizona is assembling. With Marvin Harrison Jr. joining Kyler Murray and Trey McBride, the offense is set to soar. Now, it’s the defense’s turn to catch up.
A pair of elite corners—one proven and one burgeoning—could be the backbone of a contender in the NFC West, where teams like the 49ers, Seahawks, and Rams deploy dynamic passing attacks. Imagine a world where Arizona matches up with Deebo Samuel, DK Metcalf, and Cooper Kupp with Alexander and Johnson lined up on the outside.
