The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2025 NFL Draft with a strategic mindset, looking to make key additions to their roster that will provide an immediate impact. With their current squad needing improvements in several areas, the team has identified specific targets in the draft to address both short-term needs and long-term success. The Cardinals’ front office, led by General Manager Monti Ossenfort, has been meticulous in their evaluation process, considering not only talent but also fit within the team’s evolving identity. As the team gears up for their six draft picks, including the 16th overall selection, several prospects have emerged as top targets, and each of them could significantly shape the direction of the franchise moving forward.
One of the areas that the Cardinals are most focused on improving is the offensive line. This has been a longstanding issue for the franchise, as they’ve struggled to protect their quarterback consistently, leading to a lack of stability on offense. To that end, the Cardinals are reportedly high on two prospects who could potentially fill their biggest needs. First, there’s Kelvin Banks Jr., the highly regarded left tackle from Texas. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing in at 315 pounds, Banks brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and technique to the table. During his time at Texas, Banks earned recognition as one of the top offensive linemen in the nation, showing an ability to shut down elite pass rushers and protect the quarterback’s blindside. While some analysts have questioned his shorter-than-average arm length, which could be a hindrance in certain blocking situations, his overall skill set is seen as highly transferable to the NFL. Given the Cardinals’ need for a reliable protector on the left side, Banks is a strong candidate to be selected early in the first round.
Another offensive lineman that has drawn significant interest from the Cardinals is Josh Simmons, a versatile player out of Ohio State. Simmons played alongside current Cardinals’ left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., and many believe he has the potential to develop into a solid starting lineman at the next level. A former high school tackle, Simmons transitioned to guard in college and excelled in that role. His blend of size, agility, and technique gives him the ability to play multiple positions along the line, which is an attractive trait for a team looking to add depth and flexibility to their offensive front. However, Simmons does come with some concerns, particularly surrounding his injury history, including a recent patellar tendon injury that caused him to miss significant time during the season. While some analysts see him as a potential risk, others believe that with the right development and guidance, he could become a cornerstone piece for the Cardinals’ offensive line.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Cardinals are equally committed to bolstering their front seven, especially given the need for better pass rush and run defense. A top target for them in this regard is Walter Nolen, a powerful defensive lineman from Ole Miss. Nolen’s combination of size, strength, and explosiveness makes him one of the most intriguing prospects in the draft. At 6-foot-4 and 310 pounds, he has the frame to clog up running lanes while also possessing the quickness to penetrate into the backfield as a pass rusher. In his lone season at Ole Miss, Nolen was a disruptive force, earning numerous accolades for his play. His ability to collapse the pocket and pressure the quarterback from the interior would make him an immediate asset for the Cardinals’ defense. General Manager Ossenfort has spoken highly of Nolen’s motor and his ability to create havoc on every play, making him a natural fit for the Cardinals’ defensive scheme, which has struggled at times to generate consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Another key defensive target is cornerback Will Johnson out of Michigan, a highly skilled prospect who has the potential to become a lockdown corner in the NFL. The Cardinals’ secondary has been a weak point in recent years, and the addition of a player like Johnson could provide the boost they desperately need. Johnson is known for his physicality, ball skills, and ability to cover top-tier wide receivers. His performance against elite competition in the Big Ten has solidified his reputation as one of the top cornerbacks in the 2025 draft class. With the NFL’s increasing emphasis on passing offenses, securing a cornerback who can compete against high-level receivers is essential, and Johnson’s skills make him a prime candidate to address this need. However, there is some concern that he may be off the board by the time the Cardinals are on the clock, as some analysts believe he could be selected earlier than expected.
As the Cardinals look to revamp their roster, the wide receiver position is another area that has received attention. While the team has some talent at the position, adding another playmaker could help diversify their offense and provide the quarterback with additional weapons. One receiver who stands out as a potential target for Arizona is Luther Burden III, a dynamic wide receiver from Missouri. Burden has garnered significant buzz leading up to the draft, thanks to his impressive speed, agility, and ability to run precise routes. He has been described as a player who can stretch the field and make big plays in both the short and long game, which would be a valuable asset for the Cardinals’ offense. With the potential to be available in the second or third round, Burden is an appealing prospect, as he offers great value while still providing immediate impact.
Finally, while the Cardinals have their eyes on these specific prospects, the draft is always full of surprises, and there are bound to be players who slip through the cracks or emerge as unexpected targets. The team has done extensive homework on potential draft picks, and the front office has remained flexible in their approach. This adaptability will serve them well as they navigate the complexities of the draft and look to make selections that will help elevate their roster for both the present and future.
Overall, the 2025 NFL Draft represents a pivotal opportunity for the Arizona Cardinals. With an eye toward building a competitive roster and addressing critical needs, the team’s front office is focused on finding players who can make an immediate impact. Whether it’s securing a key offensive lineman like Banks or Simmons, adding a disruptive force on defense with Nolen, or fortifying the secondary with a lockdown corner like Johnson, the Cardinals are poised to make selections that could shape the future of the franchise. The coming draft is a chance to set the tone for the next phase of the team’s development, and the players they target could play significant roles in bringing Arizona back to playoff contention. The days leading up to the draft will be crucial in determining the next steps for the organization, and all eyes will be on the Cardinals as they prepare for a critical decision-making process.