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Cardinals lose starting CB to ACL tear

Originally posted on Burn City Sports | By Spenser Tilus | Last updated Jul 27, 2025 1:53 PM ET

GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals couldn’t make it through the entire first week of training camp without suffering their first season-ending injury of the year. Starting cornerback Starling Thomas suffered a torn ACL during Fridays practice, according to ESPN Senior Insider Adam Schefter.

Tests revealed that Cardinals CB Starling Thomas, who has started 22 games the past two seasons in Arizona, tore his ACL during Friday’s practice, per source. pic.twitter.com/Qz4oIR8WFo

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 27, 2025

Over the past two seasons, Thomas has started 22 games for the Cardinals and has been an instrumental piece for the back half of their defense. The 25 year old has already accounted for 85 tackles in his career and 11 passed defended. The injury couldn’t have happened at a worst position for Arizona who were already considered thin at corner. Former 2nd-round pick Max Melton will now likely take over as the full time starter, while being backed up by rookie Denzel Burke and Elijah Jones. The Cardinals will likely be playing one of the younger cornerback groups in the league this season now with this years 2nd-round draft pick Will Johnson expected to start at the other cornerback position.

Arizona opens up their preseason on August 9th when they host Kansas City.

This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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