NEW ORLEANS – The Arizona Cardinals may have found a gem in rookie linebacker Will Johnson, who made an emphatic NFL debut against the New Orleans Saints yesterday.
In a game that tested the Cardinals’ rebuilt defense, Johnson stepped up with poise, as he led the team with three passes defended. One of the biggest moments, though, in the Cardinals’ victory over the New Orleans Saints came from when Johnson laid a massive hit on Saints WR Chris Olave.
oh my, Will Johnson
CBS pic.twitter.com/RCnzia54H9
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) September 7, 2025
Book marked!!
What a hit— nkemjika (Kemi) (@kemindolo) September 7, 2025
He must’ve had all of their signals.
— Dahhno (@Yinz_Dono) September 8, 2025
Can’t believe they let this guy fall to us
— Beard (@beardofficially) September 7, 2025
did someone get the plates on that truck??????
DEVASTATING CAR WRECK
— Teflon Don (@PatrioticG00n) September 7, 2025
Will Johnson Week 1
pic.twitter.com/L0JHeyLNCA
— SleeperCardinals (@SleeperAZCards) September 7, 2025
Will Johnson also had a highlight interception that was wiped out after an illegal contact penalty by Max Melton. Johnson outpaced Saints’ WR Rasheed Shaheed and was able to capitalize on an overthrown ball that showcased his ball hawk talents.
Read it like a
Cardinals rookie CB Will Johnson knew what was coming from the jump.
His near interception (and overall showing) vs. the Saints looked a lot like what we saw in training camp.
Running routes like a wideout. pic.twitter.com/pCeVHvdbLN
— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) September 8, 2025
Johnson’s impact brought the stats and the energy. He flew to the ball, communicated with intensity, and made plays that turned heads on both sidelines. Johnson’s immediate impact suggests that Arizona’s draft strategy may be starting to pay off.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!