Cardinals cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting suffered an ACL tear during the 2025 season, causing him to miss the entire year. The injury required surgery and he also dealt with MCL damage, although he opted for natural healing on that front. As he enters the last year of his three-year, $22.5 million contract, he is likely to play the nickel position in the upcoming season's opener. Meanwhile, Garrett Williams, recovering from his own Achilles injury, is expected to return, prompting potential shifts in the starting cornerback lineup. The team's coaching staff is exploring how to utilize both players effectively alongside emerging talent.

By the Numbers
  • Murphy-Bunting played 580 snaps outside and 141 in the box in 2024.
  • Denzel Burke was graded as the 81st best corner out of 112 players by Pro Football Focus.
State of Play
  • Garrett Williams is on track to potentially play in Week 1 after recovering from an Achilles injury.
  • Will Johnson, a second-round pick, is projected to secure one starting boundary corner position.
What's Next

The Cardinals coaching staff will have to balance the integration of Williams and Murphy-Bunting as they finalize the starting corners for the season opener. Their performance in preseason will dictate who starts opposite Johnson and whether Murphy-Bunting can reclaim the slot role. Additionally, the coaching might consider Burke's and Melton's contributions while making final decisions.

Bottom Line

The Cardinals find themselves in a critical position to optimize their cornerback lineup this season. As Murphy-Bunting continues his recovery, the team must adapt its strategy to best use its available talent, particularly as both he and Williams are heading into pivotal contract years.