The Arizona Cardinals took another significant step in shaping their future on Thursday, officially signing four of their 2025 NFL Draft selections, including highly touted edge rusher Jordan Burch. With rookie minicamp just around the corner, the team wasted no time in securing the services of several young prospects who could be pivotal to the franchise’s long-term plans.
Burch, a standout from Oregon and a former five-star recruit, headlines the group. The 6-foot-6, 290-pound defensive end was taken in the second round and is expected to make an immediate impact on a Cardinals defense looking to rebuild its identity. Known for his explosiveness off the edge and relentless motor, Burch offers the kind of physical tools and upside that could see him become a cornerstone player for the Arizona front seven.
During his final college season, Burch registered 10 sacks and 18 tackles for loss, showing steady improvement in both his technique and consistency. Scouts praised his ability to collapse the pocket, his versatility in both 3-4 and 4-3 alignments, and his football IQ, which allowed him to anticipate blocking schemes and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage. With the Cardinals placing a strong emphasis on defensive upgrades this offseason, Burch will likely see significant playing time early in his rookie year.
Joining Burch in inking rookie deals are third-round cornerback Malik Spencer, fourth-round wide receiver Bryce Kiner, and sixth-round offensive lineman Darian Wells. All four players signed standard four-year rookie contracts as stipulated by the league’s collective bargaining agreement. While the financial terms were not disclosed by the team, contract values are largely predetermined based on draft position.
Malik Spencer, a rangy and physical corner out of Michigan State, brings much-needed depth and aggression to the Cardinals’ secondary. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 200 pounds, Spencer combines size and speed with a tenacious approach to man coverage. He earned All-Big Ten honors as a senior after notching four interceptions and 12 pass breakups, regularly locking down opposing receivers and drawing praise from coaches for his leadership and competitive fire.
Spencer’s ball skills and discipline in zone schemes also make him a valuable chess piece in defensive coordinator Nick Rallis’ system, which prioritizes adaptability and disguised coverages. With the Cardinals recently parting ways with several veteran corners, Spencer could emerge as a starter or at least a rotational contributor early on. His tenacity and willingness to tackle also align well with the team’s focus on physical, fundamentally sound defense.
Wide receiver Bryce Kiner, the fourth-round selection from Houston, adds speed and versatility to an Arizona offense in transition. Kiner was one of the most electric players in the American Athletic Conference last season, racking up over 1,200 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns. He showcased his quick feet, reliable hands, and knack for making defenders miss in the open field, attributes that made him a dynamic playmaker at the collegiate level.
Though slightly undersized at 5-foot-10, Kiner plays much bigger than his frame suggests. He runs crisp routes, can line up both inside and outside, and has the burst to stretch the field vertically. Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing are expected to use Kiner in multiple ways, including gadget plays, motion sets, and special teams. His quick acclimation to the speed of the NFL will determine how soon he contributes, but the upside is undeniable.
Lastly, Darian Wells, a sixth-round offensive lineman from Kansas State, brings toughness and a high football IQ to the trenches. A three-year starter at left guard, Wells impressed scouts with his consistency, anchor strength, and ability to recognize blitzes. Though not the most athletic lineman in the draft, his technique and work ethic helped him earn All-Big 12 honors and a reputation as a reliable protector.
Wells will likely compete for a backup role initially but has the potential to grow into a starting-caliber player with further development. His ability to play both guard spots adds valuable flexibility to an Arizona offensive line that has seen frequent injuries and inconsistency in recent seasons. Wells also served as a team captain in college, underscoring the leadership traits the Cardinals value in building a cohesive locker room.
With these signings, the Cardinals have now locked in a majority of their 2025 draft class, a group that has been praised for its blend of athleticism, character, and positional need. General manager Monti Ossenfort and his front office staff have emphasized a long-term vision built around foundational talent, and Thursday’s signings reflect a commitment to that philosophy.
The Cardinals are entering a critical juncture in their rebuild. After a 5-12 campaign in 2024, the franchise is banking on a blend of veteran leadership and young upside to fuel a turnaround. Kyler Murray remains the centerpiece on offense, but a bolstered supporting cast and a retooled defense will be key to any resurgence. Burch, Spencer, Kiner, and Wells each represent building blocks in that broader puzzle.
Arizona’s front office was praised by analysts during and after the draft for addressing glaring holes and not overreaching for “name” prospects. Instead, they targeted high-upside, scheme-versatile players with strong intangibles—a recipe for sustainable success. In particular, Burch’s combination of athleticism and upside has drawn comparisons to some of the league’s more explosive edge defenders, and if he develops quickly, he could form a formidable pass-rushing duo alongside veteran Zaven Collins.
The next few weeks will be crucial as rookie minicamp opens and the team gets its first extended look at how these prospects fit within the system. While not every rookie will start right away, the Cardinals have made it clear that performance and preparation will dictate playing time. With a young coaching staff and a culture that values accountability, the message to rookies is clear: contribute early, compete always.
Jordan Burch, as the marquee name among the signees, enters the league with high expectations. His collegiate production, physical tools, and demeanor suggest he’s ready for the challenge. Arizona is hoping he can bring immediate juice to a pass rush that ranked among the bottom five in the league last season in sacks and pressures. If Burch can even come close to his college dominance, he could help change the narrative surrounding the Cardinals’ defense.
All told, Thursday’s signings are more than just routine contract formalities; they’re a signal that the Arizona Cardinals are moving with purpose. The organization is betting on youth, potential, and a unified vision. With four key pieces now under contract, the foundation for future success has been laid—and fans will be eager to see how that future takes shape when the season kicks off this fall.