Cardinals OT Named Most Disappointing Rookie

ARIZONA -- Arizona Cardinals OT Paris Johnson Jr. didn't do that bad, did he?

Bleacher Report recently included Johnson on their list of most disappointing rookies from 2023 and how they can improve moving into 2024:

From Matt Holder:

"Paris Johnson Jr. had a tough rookie season with the Arizona Cardinals, giving up 42 total pressures (eight sacks) and earning a 55.1 run-blocking grade from Pro Football Focus. But, while he was capable of being an immediate starter, B/R's Brandon Thorn noted in Johnson's scouting report that he had some technical flaws that could lead to some early struggles.

"Another offseason and more experience should help the Ohio State product clean those up, and he did get better as the season went on which is encouraging for his future development. Also, last fall was the first time he lined up at right tackle during a game, beyond a handful of snaps in his true freshman year at Columbus.

"Being more comfortable holding down the right edge should help lead to a bounce-back performance. Or, the Cardinals can move the 22-year-old back to his more natural position at left tackle now that D.J. Humphries is gone.

"While Arizona signed Jonah Williams in free agency, Williams also has experience playing both tackle spots after moving to the right side with the Bengals last year. He even told the Cardinals' team website that he "enjoyed playing right tackle" and thinks he had a good year there shortly after signing with the club.

"So, whether it's having more experience at a new position or going back to the one that made him the sixth overall pick in the draft, expect Johnson to be better in year two."

Johnson certainly had moments where he looked like a rookie - though such is life when you're fresh out of college and tasked with names such as Aaron Donald, T.J. Watt, Myles Garrett and Nick Bosa among others.

Arizona's 4-13 finish to the season likely doesn't help his case, either.

Johnson also had moments of extreme promise, and it'd be a stretch to suggest anybody in the building was disappointed with his overall body of work.