The 2025 Arizona Cardinals training camp roster preview highlights wide receiver Simi Fehoko, focusing on his potential contributions and role within the team’s upcoming season.

The Arizona Cardinals’ 2025 training camp roster is shaping up to be an intriguing mix of seasoned veterans, promising young talent, and new acquisitions. Among the wide receivers competing for roster spots and playing time, Simi Fehoko stands out as a player whose potential contributions could significantly influence the team’s offensive dynamics. This comprehensive preview delves into Fehoko’s background, development, skills, role within the Cardinals’ system, and his prospects for the upcoming season, providing fans and analysts with a nuanced understanding of his place on the roster.
1. Background and Journey to the Cardinals
Early Life and College Career:
Simi Fehoko, born in 1998 in Honolulu, Hawaii, demonstrated exceptional athletic talent from a young age. He played high school football at Punahou School, a program renowned for producing NFL-caliber athletes. Recognized for his size, speed, and athleticism, Fehoko committed to Colorado State University, where he made an immediate impact as a wide receiver.
College Performance:
At Colorado State, Fehoko developed into a reliable target, showcasing his ability to make contested catches, stretch the field, and gain yards after the catch. His impressive college stats, combined with his physical attributes—standing 6’4″ and weighing around 220 pounds—made him an intriguing NFL prospect.
NFL Draft and Early NFL Years:
Fehoko was selected by the Dallas Cowboys in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. His early NFL career was characterized by flashes of potential but also inconsistency and limited opportunities. His skill set, particularly his size and speed, drew comparisons to other successful NFL receivers, but he struggled at times with route running and consistency.
Transition to the Arizona Cardinals:
After a stint with the Cowboys, Fehoko joined the Cardinals (via trade or free agency, depending on the timeline), seeking a fresh opportunity to carve out a role in an evolving offense. The Cardinals, known for their offensive-minded approach, see in Fehoko a player with the potential to develop into a versatile and impactful receiver.
2. Physical Attributes and Skill Set
Size and Athleticism:
Fehoko’s notable size—standing 6’4″ and approximately 220 pounds—gives him an advantage in contested catch situations and red-zone targets. His athletic profile includes impressive speed for his size, with a verified 40-yard dash time around 4.45 seconds, making him a deep threat.
Route Running and Hands:
While his size and speed are assets, Fehoko’s route running has been an area of focus and development. Improving technique, creating separation, and developing consistency are key to maximizing his impact. His hands are generally reliable, capable of making difficult catches in traffic.
Yards After Catch (YAC):
Fehoko possesses good YAC ability, leveraging his size and agility to turn short receptions into significant gains. His ability to break tackles and maintain speed after the catch adds an element of explosiveness to the offense.
Special Teams Contribution:
In addition to his role as a receiver, Fehoko has shown willingness and capability to contribute on special teams, particularly in kick coverage and return units, which can bolster his value to the team.
3. Development and Growth Trajectory
Strengths to Build Upon:
Fehoko’s size and speed combination make him a matchup nightmare for defensive backs. His ability to high-point the ball and compete for contested catches is a significant asset. Additionally, his YAC potential allows for explosive plays when utilized effectively.
Areas for Improvement:
Route precision, release techniques against press coverage, and consistency in catching the ball are development areas. Improving his understanding of NFL defenses and refining his route tree will be crucial for earning more targets.
Training Camp Focus:
During training camp, Fehoko has been working intensively on route running, footwork, and understanding the offensive scheme. Coaches are emphasizing the importance of mastering the playbook to ensure he can be trusted in various situations.
4. Role Within the 2025 Arizona Cardinals Offense
Potential as a Deep Threat:
Given his speed and size, Fehoko is well-suited to stretch the field vertically. Quarterbacks can trust him to make contested catches downfield, which can open up the offense and create opportunities for other receivers.
Red Zone Presence:
His height and leaping ability make him a target in the red zone, where physical mismatches can be exploited. He can serve as a primary target on fade routes and back-shoulder throws.
Possibility as a Slot or Outside Receiver:
While primarily an outside receiver, Fehoko’s size and speed allow for versatility. He could line up in multiple positions, depending on the offensive package, providing flexibility to the coaching staff.
Complementing the Receiving Corps:
Fehoko’s role will likely depend on how the Cardinals’ other receivers perform. He could serve as a complementary option to more precise route runners and slot specialists, adding a vertical dimension to the passing attack.
5. Competition and Roster Outlook
Current Competition:
Fehoko faces competition from other young receivers, veterans, and special teams players vying for roster spots and targets. Players like Rondale Moore, Marquise Brown, and emerging rookies will also be vying for playing time.
Training Camp Performance:
Throughout training camp, Fehoko has shown flashes of his potential, with notable catches and effective route running. However, he must demonstrate consistency against NFL-level defenders to secure a prominent role.
Roster Projection:
Based on current assessments, Fehoko is expected to make the final roster, likely as a depth receiver with significant special teams contributions. His size, speed, and willingness to learn make him a valuable developmental piece for the team.
6. Future Prospects and Impact
Immediate Season Goals:
Fehoko’s primary focus will be to earn targets through practice and preseason performances, develop chemistry with the quarterback, and contribute on special teams. Demonstrating reliability and consistency will be key.
Long-Term Potential:
If he continues to develop his route running and hands, Fehoko could evolve into a consistent deep threat and red-zone weapon. His physical tools give him the potential to become a matchup nightmare for defenses.
Impact on the Cardinals’ Offense:
An improved Fehoko could add a dimension to the Cardinals’ passing game that defenses must account for, especially in critical situations like third down and red-zone scenarios. His growth could also inspire confidence in quarterbacks to throw more contested passes, knowing Fehoko’s ability to make plays.
As the 2025 Arizona Cardinals prepare for the upcoming season, wide receiver Simi Fehoko stands at a pivotal point in his NFL journey. His impressive physical attributes, combined with his athletic potential, position him as an intriguing developmental piece who could become a key contributor if he continues to refine his skills. With dedicated effort during training camp, support from coaching staff, and opportunities in the regular season, Fehoko has the chance to carve out a meaningful role in the Cardinals’ offense. Fans should watch closely as he battles for roster spots and targets, eager to see if his talent translates into consistent production and a bright future in the league.