Will Johnson Injury Update: Cardinals Rookie Cornerback Limited at Practice Ahead of Week 12

The Arizona Cardinals received encouraging news on Thursday as rookie cornerback Will Johnson returned to practice in a limited capacity. The team is preparing for Week 12, and Johnson’s participation marks a positive step after he missed the past two games with back and hip injuries.

Arizona remains heavily impacted by injuries across the roster, including wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and running back Emari Demercado already ruled out. Johnson’s potential return has emerged as one of the biggest developments heading into Sunday’s matchup.

Will Johnson Update and the Latest Injury Details

Will Johnson’s limited practice session was the most significant progress the Cardinals have seen this week. The rookie corner has been one of Arizona’s top defenders, providing strong coverage and stability in the secondary. He left the Week 9 game against the Cowboys and had been sidelined until Thursday.

The team has not confirmed whether Johnson will play on Sunday. His recovery is being monitored closely, and Friday’s practice will be a key indicator. Back and hip injuries can be unpredictable, so the Cardinals will ensure he responds well before clearing him for game action.

Here is the full Thursday injury report:

OL Kelvin Beachum (groin) – Did Not Practice
LB Baron Browning (concussion) – Did Not Practice
WR Marvin Harrison Jr. (illness) – Did Not Practice, ruled out
CB Will Johnson (back/hip) – Limited
S Dadrion Taylor-Demerson (ankle) – Did Not Practice
OL Jonah Williams (shoulder) – Did Not Practice
OL Will Hernandez (knee) – Limited
RB Emari Demercado (ankle) – Did Not Practice, ruled out
RB Trey Benson (knee) – Limited
OL Hayden Conner (knee) – Limited
RB Bam Knight (ankle) – Limited
DL Darius Robinson (groin) – Limited
CB Garrett Williams (ankle) – Limited

Arizona’s offensive line remains one of its most concerning units. Multiple starters and contributors are dealing with injuries, though Hernandez’s return to limited work after missing Wednesday’s session is a positive sign.

Browning and Taylor-Demerson missing a second straight day suggests they are unlikely to play. Both suffered injuries in Week 10 and have not shown enough improvement to return to full practice.

On a brighter note, rookie defensive lineman Walter Nolen III is completely off the injury report for the first time this season. That indicates he is the healthiest he has been in months and should play a larger role in Week 12.

How Will Johnson’s Status Impacts the Arizona Defense

If Will Johnson is cleared to return, the Cardinals’ defense will benefit immediately. He has consistently been their most reliable cornerback when available, showing strong man coverage skills and poise against top receivers.

Without Johnson, Arizona has been forced to rely heavily on younger defensive backs like Garrett Williams. While the group has battled, the defense has lacked the consistency and communication that Johnson provides.

His presence also allows the coaching staff to be more creative with coverages and blitz packages. Johnson’s ability to handle assignments one-on-one frees other defenders to support the pass rush or bracket opposing playmakers.

In the longer term, the Cardinals consider Johnson a foundational piece in their rebuilding defense. He has shown toughness, instincts, and discipline as a rookie and remains central to their plans.

For now, the Will Johnson update is optimistic but still incomplete. His limited practice is a solid step, but the Cardinals will wait for Friday’s evaluation before determining his Week 12 status. If he plays, Arizona’s defense gets a major boost during a crucial stretch of the season.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest Will Johnson update?

Will Johnson practiced on Thursday as a limited participant. His status for Week 12 will be decided after Friday’s practice and pregame evaluations.

Q2: Will Will Johnson play in Week 12?

It is still uncertain. His participation in limited practice is promising, but the team will not make a final call until closer to game time.

Q3: Who is ruled out for the Cardinals this week?

Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emari Demercado have been ruled out. Both are dealing with injuries that require more recovery time.

Q4: How important is Will Johnson to the defense?

Johnson is Arizona’s most consistent cornerback this season. His return would help stabilize the secondary and improve coverage options.

Q5: Why is Walter Nolen III not on the injury report?

This is the first week he has been fully healthy. The team expects him to play a significant role on the defensive front.