In a move that underscores the brutal realities of NFL attrition, the Arizona Cardinals have signed free-agent offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr. off the Buffalo Bills' practice squad, the team announced Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2026. The signing, reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, comes as Arizona scrambles to patch a suddenly porous offensive front following a season-ending injury to starting left tackle Paris Johnson Jr.
Johnson, the No. 6 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, suffered a torn biceps in Week 4 and will miss the remainder of the 2026 campaign. His absence leaves a gaping hole on quarterback Kyler Murray's blind side, a vulnerability that opposing pass rushers will undoubtedly look to exploit as the Cardinals navigate a grueling NFC West schedule.
A Former Top-10 Pick Gets a Second Chance
Jedrick Wills Jr. knows a thing or two about high expectations. Selected No. 10 overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Alabama, Wills was touted as a franchise cornerstone. While he showed flashes of elite pass protection during his time in Cleveland, consistency and injuries prevented him from fully living up to his draft pedigree. After a stint on the Buffalo Bills' practice squad earlier this season, Wills now lands in the desert with a chance to resurrect his career.
According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the Cardinals view Wills as a low-risk, high-reward addition. At 27, he still possesses the athleticism and length that made him a top-10 selection. The question is whether a change of scenery and a fresh start can unlock the potential that once made him one of the most coveted offensive line prospects in the country.
"We're excited to add Jedrick to the room," Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon said in a statement. "He's a talented player who has started a lot of games in this league. We're looking forward to getting him up to speed and seeing how he can help us."
Rookie Jayden Williams Thrust into the Spotlight
While Wills provides depth and experience, the Cardinals plan to start rookie offensive tackle Jayden Williams at left tackle for the time being, per sources. Williams, a 2026 draft pick, has impressed coaches with his footwork and physicality in limited snaps, but asking a first-year player to protect Murray's blind side in the NFC West is a tall order.
The Cardinals' offensive line now features a patchwork of veterans and youth, a precarious situation for a team that entered the season with playoff aspirations. General manager Monti Ossenfort has shown a willingness to churn the roster in search of upgrades, and the Wills signing is the latest example of his proactive approach.
As highlighted on Vulius, the move also raises questions about the Bills' depth. Buffalo had stashed Wills on their practice squad, likely viewing him as developmental insurance. His departure leaves them thinner at a position where quality depth is always at a premium.
What's Next for Arizona?
The Cardinals will need Wills to get up to speed quickly. With a tough stretch of games on the horizon, including matchups against the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams, the offensive line will be tested early and often. If Wills can recapture his first-round form, he could be a steal. If not, Arizona's quarterback could be running for his life.
For now, the Cardinals are hoping that a change of scenery and a renewed sense of urgency will bring out the best in Jedrick Wills Jr. In the NFL, second chances are rare—but for a former top-10 pick with something to prove, the opportunity is there for the taking.
Stay tuned to Vulius for the latest NFL news, analysis, and exclusive merchandise. Follow the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk for updates on this developing story.
Looking to represent Kyler Murray? Grab your Kyler Murray jersey or design a personalized jersey at Vulius.
