Cardinals make $19 million decision on Paris Johnson Jr.

The Arizona Cardinals could be a team to watch during the 2026 NFL Draft. Arizona boasts the third overall pick, and many analysts believe they’ll trade back into the first round for QB Ty Simpson. But the Cardinals almost certainly won’t take a left tackle in the first round, especially after their latest transaction.

The Cardinals have picked up the fifth-year option on left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

Johnson’s fifth-year option is worth $19.70 million during the 2027 season. He is still under contract at $8.93 million in 2026.

Garafolo expressed optimism that Arizona would eventually work out a long-term extension with Johnson. That is a reasonable assumption, as Johnson has been nothing but reliable for Arizona ever since joining the team.

The Cardinals traded up for Johnson in the 2023 NFL Draft, parting ways multiple draft picks in the process. But that investment looks more than worth it since Johnson has emerged as the team’s left tackle of the future. Johnson played 17 games at right tackle during his rookie season before moving to left tackle.

Upgrading the offensive line should remain a priority for Arizona under head coach Mike LaFleur. Especially with no long-term starters on the roster aside from Johnson.

If the Cardinals do decide to add an offensive lineman in the draft, they could target Miami’s Francis Mauigoa in the first round. Otherwise the Cardinals will likely pick a blue chip defensive player at third overall.

It will be exciting to see how Arizona’s roster looks after the 2026 NFL Draft.

The post Cardinals make $19 million decision on Paris Johnson Jr. appeared first on ClutchPoints.