As highly touted high school prospects, cornerback Will Johnson and defensive lineman Walter Nolen III crossed paths plenty of times the during recruiting process.
It went as far as Johnson trying to recruit Nolen to play college ball with him at Michigan. Instead, they didn't officially become teammates until the Cardinals drafted the pair in April.
When Johnson was planning a back-to-school event, it was apropos that he invited someone he was linked with from their time as students.
"Now that we're both here and able to do things together like this, I mean, that's special," Johnson said. "And to see us come back together and do the things that we always wanted to do."
The event took place on Wednesday afternoon at Maryvale High School in Phoenix. Students from the school's football and basketball team were helping run some of the stations, giving out backpacks, notebooks, folders and other school supplies. There were also barbers in attendance giving out free haircuts, face paint artists, and companies like YNGStar and Raising Canes handing out items as well.
Johnson's area of focus is helping young students, from elementary through high school. In the past, Johnson has hosted -- with the Sound Mind Sound Body Academy of which his dad, Deon, is the co-founder-- his own youth football camp in Detroit.
"They always have helped me through everything growing up so the fact that they are able to help me out like this has made me feel even more comfortable doing it," Johnson said. "The main focus of everything I do is just giving back. So as soon as I really could, I wanted to make an impact on the community and let them know I'm here for them."
What's arguably the most impressive component of this all, besides the generosity of course, is that the event is taking place during the middle of training camp. Wednesday is the second off day the Cardinals have had since they reported.
In Nolen's case, he took a break from his calf rehab process to join Johnson at the event. It's been a point of emphasis for the first-rounder to be around his teammates, even if he can't be on the field yet. Nolen got hurt prior to camp and is currently on the PUP list.
"I'm attacking rehab every day," Nolen said. "Being around the guys and seeing them out there working every day, it does push me hard to get back on the field."
Nolen's presence is a testament to coach Jonathan Gannon and general manager Monti Ossenfort's confidence in Nolen's character following his selection. And as much as Nolen and Johnson recognize how it helps the students, they gain something as well.
"It's very rewarding," Nolen said. "I'm doing something that is making me smile also. Being able to see people smile and to do something I like to do, it's amazing."
It's been an eventful and equally exciting journey for the rookie class, headlined by Nolen and Johnson. With Nolen recovering and Johnson practicing, they are both hoping to do their part to help elevate the Cardinals into playoff contention.
As much as they plan to make plays on the field, they are hoping to make a larger impact around the Valley.
"I didn't really know what to expect coming out to Arizona, but it's definitely a lot of support from the kids and the fans," Johnson said. "I don't plan on being anywhere else. I want to make sure I immerse myself in this community and this culture right away."
