ARIZONA — With the 2025 NFL Draft just around the corner, the Arizona Cardinals hold the 16th overall pick and have a variety of directions they could go.
However, Bleacher Report advises the team to steer clear of Georgia edge rusher Mykel Williams.
In a piece identifying one player each NFL team should avoid, Brent Sobleski explained why Williams may not be the right fit for Arizona:
“Even though the Cardinals have already invested heavily in their defensive line—adding players like Josh Sweat, Dalvin Tomlinson, Calais Campbell, Darius Robinson, Justin Jones, and Bilal Nichols—they could still use additional help.
But Mykel Williams doesn’t offer much that Arizona doesn’t already have when they’re on the clock at No. 16.
Williams is still developing as a pass-rusher and spent most of his college career playing inside. His skill set closely mirrors that of Darius Robinson, whom the Cardinals selected with the 27th pick last year.
If Arizona wants to add another edge rusher, which appears to be the case based on their pre-draft evaluations, they should consider someone else. Williams’ draft stock relies more on potential than proven performance.”
Despite the criticism, Williams was among the prospects brought in by Arizona for a Top 30 visit. While he’s seen as a raw talent, many believe his upside ranks among the highest in his class.
Richie Bradshaw of the Cardinals believes Williams still holds strong appeal, ranking him as the fifth-best edge option for the team:
“I trust this coaching staff to develop defensive players and maximize their potential. Williams may need some refinement, but I think the staff is capable of handling that,” he wrote.
“He brings versatility and the ability to play in different alignments. While he’d require development, he could be a very exciting addition for Arizona.”
