The Arizona Cardinals secured the services of offensive tackle Jonah Williams through a two-year contract worth $30 million, according to an anonymous source familiar with the details. This information comes as the contract remains officially unannounced.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 312 pounds, Williams brings experience to the Cardinals’ offensive line. Previously drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals with the 11th overall pick in 2019 (out of Alabama), he has started consistently for the past four seasons. The source further revealed that $19 million of the contract is guaranteed for Williams.
This news coincided with the Cardinals announcing the release of veteran offensive lineman D.J. Humphries. Humphries is expected to miss a significant portion of the upcoming season due to a torn ACL injury.
A mainstay for the Cardinals since his 2015 draft (out of Florida), Humphries had become a reliable figure. Throughout his tenure, he played in every game (98) and earned the respect of his teammates. His contributions were recognized with four team captain titles and a Pro Bowl appearance in 2021.
Highly regarded for his personality, the 30-year-old Humphries held the title of the Cardinals’ longest-tenured player, nearing a decade with the team.
Cardinals’ quarterback Kyler Murray acknowledged Humphries’ departure through a social media message: “One of the realest, been a pleasure brother. Hope all Cardinals fans appreciate @74_hump!”
While a shoulder injury sidelined Williams during his rookie season with the Bengals in 2019, he came back strong, starting the following three seasons at left tackle. This past season, he transitioned to the right tackle position, playing in all 17 games.
The Cardinals opted to address their offensive line further in the 2023 draft by selecting Paris Johnson Jr. with the sixth overall pick. Johnson, the rookie, impressed during his first season, starting every game at right tackle. With Humphries’ absence, Johnson might move to the left side, with Williams potentially retaining the right tackle position.
