Arizona Cardinals training camp preview: WR Michael Wilson

Michael Wilson’s breakout 2025 season

The Cardinals report to training camp on July 22, and the spotlight quickly falls on Michael Wilson. The third‑round pick from 2023 is now entering his fourth NFL year with Arizona, and his 2025 campaign marked a turning point for his career. He logged a full season for the first time, hauling in 78 receptions for 1,006 yards and seven touchdowns. In three games he eclipsed the 10‑catch mark while posting at least 118 yards, showcasing his growing role as a reliable deep threat.

Contract details and cap implications

Wilson is currently on the final year of his rookie pact, a four‑year deal that includes a playing‑time escalator. Because of that escalator he will collect $3.9 million in salary for the upcoming season, and his cap hit exceeds $4.1 million. He is eligible for a contract extension, and many observers expect the Cardinals to lock him in before the season kicks off. Securing a new deal would give both Wilson and Arizona financial predictability, while also easing cap pressure for the franchise.

Roster status and primary role

There is little doubt that Wilson will make the final 53‑man roster; he is slated to start as Arizona’s main “Z” receiver. The Z spot typically blends slot and outside‑out tendencies, demanding both quick route running and the ability to generate separation downfield—areas where Wilson’s 2025 numbers impressed. His presence gives the Cardinals a steady target who can complement the vertical threats and add yards after the catch. Starting duties signal that the coaching staff believes Wilson is the most ready option to fill that specific offensive gap.

Key questions heading into camp

• Will Wilson secure a contract extension before the season begins?
• How will his 2026 season shape up given the expectations built in 2025?

What Wilson’s performance means for the Cardinals

The statistical ceiling Wilson reached—78 catches and over a thousand receiving yards—positions him as a foundational piece for Arizona’s passing attack. If the Cardinals can retain him with a long‑term deal, they will reduce future cap strain while keeping a proven target on the field. Conversely, a failed extension could force the team to balance its cap resources elsewhere. Regardless, Wilson’s 2025 season has elevated his standing from a potential rotational player to a core option, setting the stage for a defining campaign in 2026.