The NFL draft wraps up Saturday, April 26, with the final four rounds.
In the first three rounds of the draft, the Cardinals focused on defense. They drafted defensive tackle Walter Nolen, cornerback Will Johnson and edge rusher Jordan Burch.
Look back at our live NFL Draft 2025 updates for pick-by-pick news, notes, analysis and reaction, including what happened with the Arizona Cardinals, who made one pick in the second round and one pick in the third round on Friday, April 25.
The biggest surprise? Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders still hasn’t been selected, but four other QBs have: Miami’s Cam Ward, Ole Miss‘ Jaxson Dart, Louisville’s Tyler Shough and Alabama’s Jalen Milroe.
What could the final day hold? Follow below for updates:
Fourth round, No. 115 overall: Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State
Table of Contents
- Fourth round, No. 115 overall: Cody Simon, LB, Ohio State
- Cardinals trade fifth-round pick to Cowboys
- Arizona Cardinals Draft Class: Leaning on Ohio state and Texas Talent
- A Strategic Draft Focused on Skill and Potential
- Key Prospects from Ohio State and Texas
- Positional Needs Addressed
- Analyzing the Draft Grades and expert Opinions
- Potential Impact and Team Fit
- The Cardinals’ Draft Strategy: A Deeper Look
- Beyond the Headlines: underrated Prospects and potential Steals
- The Importance of Coaching and Development
- The Fan’s Perspective: Expectations and hopes for the Future
- First-Hand Experience: A Former Player’s Perspective (Hypothetical)
- Analyzing the Long-Term Impact
- Practical Tips: How to Follow and Evaluate the Cardinals’ New recruits
The Cardinals once again added defensive help in the fourth round. As was the case on Friday night, there were plenty of viable options in their primary areas of offensive need, namely guard and wide receiver.
Instead, they opted for Simon, a five-year linebacker out of Ohio State. Simon is noted for his ability against the run, and in 2024, he shone as a pass rusher, recording seven sacks. He generated a 23% pressure rate on 87 pass rush snaps, excelling on blitzes.
“All that is about timing,” Simon said. “It’s about preparation and learning the weaknesses of certain offenses. I think I found a little bit of a knack to get to the quarterback last season and it’s just being aggressive and being fast and violent.”
Simon also possesses the versatility that the Cardinals covet. Although he primarily operates as a middle linebacker, he played slot receiver on 110 snaps.
That ability to operate all over the defense speaks to an intelligence that his college coaches often praised.
“As a linebacker, you need to have great instincts,” Simon said. “And I think that’s my biggest strength. Having great instincts and being able to tackle well and being a great leader and communicator is vital for a good defense.”
His weaknesses come in pass coverage. Per Pro Football Focus, he never had a grade above 75.0 in that area.
Still, he could have an opportunity to compete for immediate snaps in Arizona. Mack Wilson Sr., who plays a do-everything role, is locked in as one starting linebacker. But the Cardinals’ top middle linebacker is currently slated to be Akeem Davis-Gaither, a free agent signing who has only started a handful of games in his five-year career.
Davis-Gaither and Simon could also split snaps, although that would be a departure from how Jonathan Gannon has previously operated. His starting middle linebacker typically plays every snap.
If Simon does not immediately get on the field as a linebacker, he could have a role on special teams, where he was a key contributor for Ohio State.
Cardinals trade fifth-round pick to Cowboys
The Cardinals dealt their fifth-round pick (No. 152 overall) to the Cowboys in exchange for Dallas’ fifth-rounder (No. 172 overall) and a compensatory sixth-rounder (No. 211 overall). The Cowboys used the pick on Cowboys linebacker Shemar James.
The move enables them to make a selection in the sixth round. They previously traded their own sixth-round pick to the Broncos at the trade deadline in exchange for edge rusher Baron Browning. At the time, Browning was set to become a free agent after the season, but he signed an extension with the Cardinals in March.
The Cardinals still have not selected an offensive player in this draft. They have a need at guard, and potentially at wide receiver.
The Cardinals stayed true to their tendencies in the fifth round. They took yet another Ohio State product and yet another defensive player, adding cornerback Denzel Burke.
A Phoenix native, Burke began his high school career at Phoenix Brophy Prep before graduating from Scottsdale Saguaro. After being a four-star recruit in the class of 2021, he immediately earned a key role at Ohio State, starting 51 games over four seasons.
He never emerged, though, into a true star for the Buckeyes. In some respects, his freshman year was his best. That year, he recorded nine pass breakups. As a senior, he recorded just two.
With a 4.48-second 40-yard dash, he also lacks high-end speed at a position where measurables are key.
But outside of a nightmarish performance against Oregon, Burke showed some positive signs as a senior. In that game, he allowed 162 receiving yards and two touchdowns when targeted. In the Buckeyes’ 15 other games, he allowed just 251 yards and no touchdowns.
“I’ve been through a lot, especially these past few years at Ohio State,” Burke said. “A lot of ups and downs, a lot of ebbs and flows. I know what it takes to be a complete football player.”
In Arizona, Burke enters a crowded position room. Will Johnson, Garrett Williams, Sean Murphy-Bunting, Max Melton and Starling Thomas V are all nearly guaranteed to make the roster. The competition for the remaining openings — potentially two spots — figures to include Burke, Elijah Jones, Kei’Trel Clark and Jaden Davis.
Jones has the draft pedigree as a third-round pick in 2024 but missed his entire rookie season with an ankle injury. Clark was a sixth-round pick in 2023 and spent most of last season mired on the depth chart; Davis was a seventh-round pick in 2024 and spent the year on the practice squad.
In total, the Cardinals have drafted seven cornerbacks since Jonathan Gannon and Monti Ossenfort took over.
On Saturday, that competition didn’t faze Burke.
“I’m chasing,” Burke said, “to be one of best corners to ever step foot in the league.”
With their sixth selection in the draft, the Cardinals finally addressed perhaps their most glaring weakness, adding guard Hayden Conner out of Texas.
As a sixth rounder, Conner is unlikely to immediately compete for a starting job, but he enters a thin position room.
Evan Brown and Isaiah Adams are penciled in as the current starters at guard, though neither is particularly entrenched in his role. Behind those two, the Cardinals’ interior offensive linemen are either unproven or have only ever struggled when called upon. That group includes Jon Gaines II, Jake Curhan and Royce Newman.
“I’ll take whatever opportunity arises,” Conner said. “I know that I’m good enough to fight for a starting job but if they need me to be that sixth, seventh guy, then I can do that and I’m humble enough to fit in wherever.”
In college, Conner was more advanced as a pass blocker than in the running game.
Over the past two seasons, Pro Football Focus gave him pass blocking grades of 82.2 and 85.4. As a senior, he did not allow a single sack. By contrast, his best run blocking grade was 65.9.
That statistical production aligns with Conner’s profile. At 6-foot-6, 322 pounds, he’s an imposing physical presence on the inside, where he’s noted for his strength and aggression. But he lacks NFL-level athleticism or quickness, which is particularly limiting in the running game.
Those concerns, though, could be mitigated by the Cardinals’ gap-heavy running scheme, which requires less mobility out of its linemen.
Conner also arrives in Arizona with positional versatility. Although the bulk of his snaps in college came at left guard, he played every position on the offensive line except right tackle. In the NFL, he will most likely stick to the three interior spots, but his ability to play center could be valuable as the Cardinals piece together their offensive line depth.
“I take a lot of passion into my greatest strength, which is my football IQ,” Conner said. “I prepare like no one else and I’m extremely versatile.”
The Cardinals rounded out their draft with a versatile selection in Nevada’s Kitan Crawford.
Nominally a safety, Crawford played all over Nevada’s defense last season. He logged 312 snaps in the box, 177 at slot corner and 352 at free safety. None of those are particularly glaring needs on the Cardinals’ roster, but in the seventh round, the goal is to find a player who can make the 53-man roster.
Crawford offers two of the traits that often help late-round selections make that a reality: He’s an asset on special teams and he has elite athleticism.
Last season, he played 152 total special teams snaps. At Texas, where he spent his first four seasons, that was his primary role.
“I take pride in special teams,” Crawford said. “I love special teams. I adopted this mindset, it’s only one play so why not go 100%?”
As for his athleticism, he logged a 9.72 raw athletic score, out of 10. His 4.41-second 40-yard dash and 41.5-inch vertical jump were particularly impressive.
date: 2025-04-27 00:11:00
Arizona Cardinals Draft Class: Leaning on Ohio state and Texas Talent
A Strategic Draft Focused on Skill and Potential
the 2024 NFL Draft saw the Arizona Cardinals address key needs wiht a draft class heavily influenced by talent from powerhouse programs like Ohio State and Texas. This strategic approach suggests a focus on acquiring players with proven track records and the potential to make an immediate impact. but how well did they do? Let’s break down the selections and analyze what these players bring to the desert.
Key Prospects from Ohio State and Texas
The Cardinals’ draft haul showcases a clear emphasis on specific skill sets and positional needs. Identifying players from Ohio State and Texas points to a calculated bet on athletes who have thrived under pressure in high-profile college environments. Hear’s a closer look:
Ohio State Selections
Ohio State consistently produces NFL-caliber players, and the Cardinals clearly recognized the value in tapping into that pipeline.
Impact on the Team
The addition of Ohio State alumni is expected to bring a much-needed boost to the team’s performance.Their experience in a competitive conference like the Big Ten will prove to be valuable in the NFL.
- proven Performers: Ohio State players are frequently enough well-coached and possess a strong understanding of the game.
- Competitive Edge: They are accustomed to playing in high-stakes games, preparing them for the pressure of the NFL.
- Scheme Versatility: Many Ohio State prospects are versatile enough to fit into various offensive and defensive schemes.
Texas Selections
The Longhorns have been resurgent in recent years, producing top-tier talent across multiple positions. The Cardinals’ scouting department clearly identified players who fit their organizational vision.
Bringing Longhorn Firepower to Arizona
Selecting Texas players demonstrates a commitment to injecting explosiveness and playmaking ability into the Cardinals’ roster.The hope is that these players can contribute substantially on both sides of the ball.
- Explosive Playmakers: Texas prospects frequently enough possess exceptional athleticism and the ability to create big plays.
- high Motor: These players are known for their relentless effort and commitment to the game.
- Leadership Potential: The Cardinals may have identified future leaders within the Texas program.
Positional Needs Addressed
Beyond just selecting players from specific schools, the Cardinals’ draft addressed critical positional needs. Identifying and filling these gaps is crucial for the team’s long-term success.
- Offensive Line: Protecting the quarterback is paramount,and bolstering the offensive line was a clear priority.
- Defensive Front Seven: Adding pass rushers and run stoppers is essential for improving the defense.
- Secondary: Reinforcing the defensive backfield with playmaking defensive backs can significantly impact the team’s ability to create turnovers.
- Wide Receiver: Providing the quarterback with reliable targets can make them a more formidable team.
Analyzing the Draft Grades and expert Opinions
Draft grades are subjective, but they provide a valuable insight into how experts view the Cardinals’ selections. While some analysts may praise the picks, others may be more critical. Examining these varying perspectives can help us understand the potential risks and rewards associated with each selection.
Key Concerns Identified by Experts:
- reaching for Talent: Some experts may argue that the Cardinals reached for certain players, potentially bypassing more talented prospects at other positions.
- Injury Concerns: Injury history is always a concern, and some draftees may have a greater risk of injury than others.
- Scheme Fit: The success of each pick will depend on how well they fit into the Cardinals’ offensive and defensive schemes.
Potential Impact and Team Fit
Ultimately, the success of the Cardinals’ draft class will depend on how well these players translate their college success to the NFL level. Assessing their potential impact and team fit is crucial for understanding the long-term implications of these selections.
Factors Influencing Success:
- Coaching and Growth: The cardinals’ coaching staff will play a critical role in developing these young players and maximizing their potential.
- Opportunity: The amount of playing time each player receives will significantly impact their ability to make an impact.
- Work Ethic and Dedication: Success in the NFL requires unwavering work ethic and a commitment to improvement.
The Cardinals’ Draft Strategy: A Deeper Look
The Arizona Cardinals’ approach to the draft appeared to be a blend of addressing immediate needs and building for the future. This dual strategy is common among NFL teams, but the specific balance between the two often varies depending on the team’s current situation.
Immediate Needs vs. Long-Term Potential
Did the Cardinals prioritize players who can step in and contribute right away, or did they focus on selecting prospects with high ceilings who may need more time to develop? A closer look at their draft picks reveals clues about their overall philosophy.
Balancing Act:
- Ready-Made Contributors: Identifying players who can immediately contribute on special teams or in specific roles.
- Developmental Projects: Selecting players with raw talent and the potential to become stars, even if they require critically importent coaching and development.
Beyond the Headlines: underrated Prospects and potential Steals
While the top picks often garner the most attention, some of the most impactful players in the NFL are often found later in the draft. Did the Cardinals identify any potential steals who could exceed expectations?
| Round | Player Name | Position | Potential Upside |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Hypothetical Prospect A | offensive guard | Could develop into a reliable starter. |
| 5 | hypothetical prospect B | Linebacker | Special teams ace with potential as a situational pass rusher. |
| 6 | Hypothetical prospect C | Safety | Hard-hitting safety with good instincts; needs refinement in coverage. |
The Importance of Coaching and Development
No matter how talented a draft class may be, the coaching staff plays a crucial role in turning potential into performance. The Cardinals’ coaches will be tasked with developing these young players, refining their skills, and integrating them into the team’s culture.
A Coaching Perspective
The coaching staff’s ability to effectively utilize the new talent will determine the success of the draft class.
The Fan’s Perspective: Expectations and hopes for the Future
Ultimately, the draft is about more than just grades and expert opinions. It’s about the fans and their hopes for the future of the team. What are the expectations of Cardinals fans, and how do they feel about the team’s draft selections?
Hope for the Future:
- Playoff Contention: Fans are hoping that the draft class will help the Cardinals become a playoff contender.
- Exciting Play: They want to see exciting football and a team that is fun to watch.
- Long-term Success: They are looking for players who can be key contributors for years to come.
First-Hand Experience: A Former Player’s Perspective (Hypothetical)
*Note: This section is hypothetical and relies on imagined insights from a former NFL player.*
“Having been thru the draft process myself, I can tell you it’s just the beginning. these young guys are entering a whole new world. The pressure is immense, the competition is fierce, and the learning curve is steep. What separates the guys who make it from those who don’t is their dedication, their willingness to learn, and their ability to handle adversity. The cardinals have brought in some talented players, but it’s up to them to put in the work and prove they belong at this level. plus, it is indeed crucial to build a relationship with everyone in the team, from teammates to personnel, it shows humility and eagerness to contribute.”
Analyzing the Long-Term Impact
The true measure of a draft class’s success isn’t immediately apparent. It takes several years to fully evaluate how well the Cardinals did in the 2024 NFL Draft. We need to consider:
Building a Sustainable Roster
The objective is more than to inject immediate talent for short-term success; it’s to mold a team capable of sustained competitiveness. This requires the draft picks to evolve not just as individual players, but also as cohesive unit within the squad.
- Development of Drafted Quarterbacks: Teams often draft quarterbacks with immense anticipation and pressure for immediate results. How the Cardinals nurture these young QBs impacts their future success.
- Impact on Free Agency: A successful draft can reduce reliance on expensive free-agent acquisitions in the following years, providing financial versatility.
- Team Culture: Integrating players into the team culture influences unity and long-term chemistry.
Practical Tips: How to Follow and Evaluate the Cardinals’ New recruits
Here are practical tips to follow and evaluate the progress of Arizona Cardinals’ drafted players. Fans and analysts can use these strategies to form informed opinions:
- Attend Training Camp: Attending camp allows stakeholders to watch players in action with minimal media filtering.
- Monitor Pre-Season Games: Pre-season games provide a stage for recruits to showcase their readiness for professional leagues.
- Utilize performance stats and Analytics: Tracking statistical improvements helps to assess player development accurately.
- Engage in Discussions with Informed Sources: Talking with coaches, analysts, and experienced players adds depth to your understanding.
- Stay Updated with Team News: Keeping up with all media and official dialog about your preferred recruits.
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