The Arizona Cardinals made a significant addition to their defense in the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Cody Simon, the standout linebacker from Ohio State. Simon’s arrival not only strengthens the Cardinals' defensive unit, but also brings proven leadership and exceptional football intelligence to the team.

Cardinals Land a Defensive Leader

Cody Simon, taken with the No. 115 pick, was a key figure on an elite Ohio State defense. As a Buckeyes team captain, Simon guided his squad to a National Championship and was named the defensive MVP in their title win over Notre Dame. During the 2024 season, he racked up an impressive 112 tackles, 12.5 tackles for loss, and seven sacks. His ability to read offenses and lead on-field communication has drawn praise from Cardinals' management and coaching staff alike.

For a detailed breakdown of the Cardinals’ 2025 NFL Draft selections and what Cody Simon's addition means for the linebacker group, visit the Arizona Cardinals’ official announcement. Simon’s aggressive style, combined with fast pursuit and strong tackling instincts, makes him a valuable asset for Arizona.

Instincts and Versatility Set Simon Apart

Simon’s football IQ and natural instincts are widely recognized. At Ohio State, he was often described as the “quarterback” of the defense, ensuring his teammates were always in the right position. This leadership trait is expected to translate well in Arizona, giving the Cardinals a linebacker who can anchor the defense both on the field and in the locker room.

While Simon has excelled as a run-stopper and blitzer, he has also contributed significantly on special teams. His adaptability could earn him meaningful snaps early in his pro career. For an in-depth analysis of Simon’s role and strengths, Sports Illustrated offers a closer look at his transition to the Cardinals.

Immediate Impact and Competition Ahead

With the Cardinals revamping their linebacker corps, Cody Simon faces a promising but challenging path. Arizona recently added veterans like Akeem Davis-Gaither, but Simon’s combination of tackling, leadership, and versatility places him firmly in the mix for early playing time. His primary challenge will be adjusting to NFL speed and improving his coverage skills, an area identified as a work in progress during his college career.

As the Arizona Republic highlights, Simon’s role could extend beyond linebacker duties, with opportunities on special teams and potentially as a defensive signal-caller in the future. His competitiveness and desire to lead make him a key figure in the Cardinals’ long-term plans.

Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Arizona

Selecting Cody Simon reflects the Cardinals’ focus on building a hard-hitting, intelligent defense. Simon’s legacy at Ohio State, marked by leadership and on-field excellence, sets a foundation for NFL success. As he embarks on his pro journey, fans can expect Simon to make an immediate impact—both as a strong tackler and as a communicator. Arizona’s investment in Simon signals their belief in his ability to help shape the team’s defensive identity for years to come.

Stay connected for more updates as Cody Simon begins his NFL career and aims to become a cornerstone of the Arizona Cardinals’ defense.