The Arizona Cardinals are starting to lay the foundation for what they hope is a transformative 2025 NFL season, and they’re doing so with one of their cornerstone players back at full strength. Offensive tackle Paris Johnson Jr., the former first-round pick out of Ohio State, declared himself “completely” healthy as the team began its offseason program, offering a major boost to a franchise focused on rebuilding from the trenches out.
Johnson, who battled through injury concerns during his rookie campaign and saw his second year slowed by lingering issues, now finds himself in the spotlight once again—not because of setbacks, but because of his potential. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound tackle is moving with confidence, speaking with clarity, and projecting the type of presence that has the Cardinals believing they’ve got a franchise piece protecting their quarterback for years to come.
“I feel great, man. Completely healthy,” Johnson said during Monday’s media availability. “It’s been a while since I’ve been able to say that. Now it’s about stacking good days and doing what I came here to do—help this team win.”
That sentiment resonates in a locker room craving stability, identity, and above all, protection for quarterback Kyler Murray. The 2024 season was one of fits and starts, with Murray returning from a torn ACL midway through the year and Johnson dealing with lower body injuries that limited his explosiveness and availability. Despite the hurdles, Johnson still showed flashes of the dominance that made him a top-10 selection in the 2023 NFL Draft. The Cardinals’ front office remained committed to his development, banking on his size, technique, and upside.
This offseason, with a clean bill of health and a renewed energy, Johnson is embracing the pressure. “I’m not running from expectations,” he said. “I’m running toward them.”
And he’ll need to, because the Cardinals are counting on him. Arizona has made it clear through its offseason decisions that building a reliable offensive line is a top priority. With veterans like D.J. Humphries no longer in the picture and the roster going through a youth movement, Johnson is now not just a key player, but a leader.
“It’s crazy how fast it happens,” Johnson said. “You go from being the young guy trying to figure everything out to now being someone others look to. I’m ready for that responsibility. I want it.”
Head coach Jonathan Gannon has praised Johnson’s mindset and progress, calling him “locked in” and “a tone-setter” for what the Cardinals are trying to establish up front. Offensive coordinator Drew Petzing echoed that sentiment, saying Johnson’s return to full health is “huge for what we want to do offensively.”
“There’s just a different presence when Paris is out there,” Petzing said. “He’s smart, he’s physical, and he plays with the kind of edge that gets guys going. We’re excited to see what he can do this year, especially now that he’s got a full offseason to prepare.”
That full offseason will be crucial. Last year, Johnson was limited during organized team activities (OTAs) and entered training camp playing catch-up. This time around, he’s training without restrictions, working on both his strength and his footwork, and getting valuable time alongside teammates in the system. That continuity, he believes, will pay dividends.
“It’s one thing to know the playbook,” Johnson said. “It’s another to know the guy next to you. Communication, timing—it all starts now. And I’m finally in a position where I can fully engage in that process without having to worry about rehab or pain management.”
Johnson’s attitude and approach haven’t gone unnoticed in the locker room. Veteran linemen have spoken about his maturity, his attention to detail, and his drive to be great. Young players are watching him closely. And Murray, the man whose blind side he often protects, has expressed his appreciation.
“Paris is a beast,” Murray said. “When he’s healthy, he’s a problem for defenses. He’s got that fire, and you can tell he wants to dominate. That’s what we need.”
Johnson’s return to form is part of a broader narrative the Cardinals are trying to write—a story of redemption, resilience, and rebirth. After back-to-back losing seasons and a revolving door of coaching changes, Arizona is searching for stability. Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort are in sync on the team’s long-term vision, and they view Johnson as a foundational piece of the puzzle.
“You don’t find guys like Paris every day,” Ossenfort said. “When you get one, you do everything you can to help him reach his potential. We believe in him, and we’re thrilled he’s healthy and ready to lead.”
Beyond his physical tools, what separates Johnson is his mental makeup. A journalism major at Ohio State with interests in philanthropy, media, and community work, Johnson brings a unique perspective to the locker room. He’s not just playing for accolades—he’s playing with purpose.
“Football is my passion, but I also want to be a voice, an example,” he said. “Whether it’s mentoring younger guys, being involved in the community, or speaking out on important issues, I know I’ve got a platform. I want to use it the right way.”
That mindset is reflected in his preparation. Johnson has spent the offseason studying film—not just of his own games, but of the league’s elite tackles. He mentions names like Trent Williams, Lane Johnson, and Tyron Smith, breaking down their technique, their leverage, and their consistency. He’s not trying to copy anyone—but he’s intent on learning from the best.
“You see the way those guys approach every snap, how they finish plays, how they communicate—it’s next-level stuff,” Johnson said. “That’s the standard I’m chasing.”
Of course, the NFL is unpredictable, and staying healthy is never guaranteed. But if Johnson can finally put his injury issues behind him, the Cardinals may have a rising star on their hands. A player who can anchor their offensive line for the next decade. A player who can grow with Kyler Murray and help usher in a new era of Arizona football.
That’s the vision. That’s the goal. And for Johnson, it all starts now.
“Everything I went through last year—it made me tougher,” he said. “I learned a lot about myself. And I know what I’m capable of. This is the beginning of something special.”
The Cardinals hope he’s right. With the NFL Draft looming and roster moves still to come, there’s no telling what the final version of Arizona’s team will look like. But one thing is clear: a healthy Paris Johnson Jr. gives this group a much better shot at success.
And for a franchise desperate for a spark, that’s very good news.