In one of the more heartwarming twists of the 2025 NFL Draft weekend, longtime college football rivals Ohio’s Marvin Harrison Jr. and Michigan’s Will Johnson have gone from fierce competitors to fast friends. Shortly after the Cardinals selected Johnson with the No. 47 pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Harrison Jr., welcomed Johnson with open arms, posting a picture of the two together. Johnson quickly reposted the image and added a caption that said, “let’s work.” The Instagram story, posted after Johnson’s selection by the Cardinals, was a sign of mutual respect. It looks like they’ve acknowledged the significance of their history and are embracing the idea that college rivalries end when the draft begins.

It’s a fresh start for everyone involved. For Harrison, a chance to welcome and guide his former opponent to the NFL. And as for Johnson, an opportunity to prove himself in a new league with the support of a teammate who understands the weight of the competition and the pressure it brings. Their unexpected bond is a reminder that NFL locker rooms can turn even the bitterest college rivals into teammates focused on a shared goal. Some may say Harrison Jr. ditched his former team and coach Ryan Day by embracing friendship with his rival, but we call it moving forward.

For years, the rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan has been one of the most intense yet entertaining in college football. Marvin Harrison Jr. and Will Johnson had spent their college careers on opposite sides of that divide. Harrison dominated as a wide receiver for the Buckeyes. On the other hand, Johnson was the cornerstone of Michigan’s secondary. It was one of the fiercest competitors on the field. Every season, their teams clashed on the field, a spectacle watched by millions. It was a display of the two players embodying the heart and soul of their respective programs.

Drafted just months apart, Harrison and Johnson now have a chance to become cornerstone pieces for the Cardinals. Their budding friendship could help fast track chemistry both on and off the field, which is critical for a team trying to rebuild itself as a contender.

What does Will Johnson bring to Arizona?

The social media interaction between Harrison and Johnson may have captured the headlines surprised many fans. However, adding on, it really matters for the Cardinals is what Johnson brings to the team as their newest addition. At 6 foot 2 inches and 194 pounds, Johnson is a cornerback who can handle top-tier receivers in man-to-man coverage. His performance at Michigan was nothing short of stellar, with three interceptions returned for touchdowns and a remarkable ability to shut down opposing wideouts.

Despite a toe injury that lingered through his 2024 season, Johnson was an All-American in 2023 and one of the top defensive prospects available in the draft. His reputation as a physical, smart corner with a tenacious attitude made him a perfect fit for the Cardinals, who needed help in their secondary.

Johnson was seen as a potential first-round pick, but a slight slide to the second round turned out to be a blessing for Arizona. While some had speculations about knee concerns, Johnson quickly assured teams that his injury was not an issue, adding fuel to his motivation to prove doubters wrong. The Cardinals saw potential for immediate impact, and they jumped at the chance to bring him on board.

As the Cardinals’ defense continues to rebuild, Johnson’s ability to lock down receivers and provide leadership on the field will be invaluable. He’s not just a talented cornerback, but a player who has the physicality and intelligence to make an immediate impact in the NFL.