Cardinals draft picks 2026: Full list of team's round-by-round selections
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Cardinals draft picks 2026: Full list of team's round-by-round selections
Jacob Camenker, USA TODAY·USA TODAY Sports
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8 min read
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TheArizona Cardinalsstarted the 2025 NFL season with a 2-0 record, but the wheels fell off shortly thereafter. They lost 14 of their final 15 games to close the season, which resulted inJonathan Gannon being firedafter three seasons.
Gannon wasn't the only one jettisoned by the Cardinals. Arizona also parted with starting quarterbackKyler Murray, absorbing a $52.7 million dead cap hit over two years to get a reset at the position.
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That leaves general manager Monti Ossenfort as the last man standing among Arizona's key brain trust. The 48-year-old figures to be on the hot seat, and will be facing plenty of pressure to improve his roster during the2026 NFL Draftbecause of that.
The Cardinals were well-positioned to attack this year's draft. Armed with the No. 3 overall pick, the team made a splash by selecting running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame.
The one question of how the team will address the quarterback position remains something of a mystery as there will be some developing that needs to happen withCarson Beck, whom the Cards took in Round 3.
Here's everything to know about the Cardinals' picks, needs and outlook after the 2026 NFL Draft:
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament toMendoza's impeccable body of workthat the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He'sfar from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
(Michael Caterina, Imagn Images)
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – includinghis short arms– invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
(Jason Clark, Getty Images)
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, Imagn Images)
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
(John E. Moore III, Getty Images)
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
(Grace Smith/IndyStar, Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
(Stephen Lew, Imagn Images)
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
(Justin Casterline, Getty Images)
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
(Brianna Paciorka, News Sentinel)
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
13. Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
(Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images)
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
(Norm Hall, Getty Images)
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
(Rob Gray, Imagn Images)
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
(Ed Zurga, Getty Images)
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
(Ali Gradischer, Getty Images)
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
(Joe Nicholson, Imagn Images)
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
(Jeff Romance, Imagn Images)
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
(Kelsey Grant, Getty Images)
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
(Butch Dill, Getty Images)
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
(Scott Taetsch, Getty Images)
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
(Jay Biggerstaff, Imagn Images)
1/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
1/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
2/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament toMendoza's impeccable body of workthat the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He'sfar from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
(Michael Caterina, Imagn Images)
4/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – includinghis short arms– invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
(Jason Clark, Getty Images)
5/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, Imagn Images)
6/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
7/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
(John E. Moore III, Getty Images)
8/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
(Grace Smith/IndyStar, Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
9/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
(Stephen Lew, Imagn Images)
10/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
(Justin Casterline, Getty Images)
11/25
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
(Brianna Paciorka, News Sentinel)
12/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
13/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
13. Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
(Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images)
14/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
(Norm Hall, Getty Images)
15/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
(Rob Gray, Imagn Images)
16/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
17/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
(Ed Zurga, Getty Images)
18/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
(Ali Gradischer, Getty Images)
19/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
(Joe Nicholson, Imagn Images)
20/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
(Jeff Romance, Imagn Images)
21/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
(Kelsey Grant, Getty Images)
22/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
23/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
(Butch Dill, Getty Images)
24/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
(Scott Taetsch, Getty Images)
25/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
(Jay Biggerstaff, Imagn Images)
Cardinals 2026 NFL Draft picks
The Cardinals have seven picks in the 2026 NFL Draft. Here's the complete list:
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Round 1, Pick 3:Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
A rebuilding team, buried deep in the NFC West's basement, signals how bereft of high-end talent this draft is by drafting a running back third overall. Love, who becomes the first runner to go in the top five sinceSaquon Barkleyin 2018, in many ways compares to the Eagles star as a dynamic, do-it-all type. An every-down back, Love has averaged 6.9 yards per carry and caught 55 passes over the past two seasons. (Yes, he could probably survive as a pure receiver in the league.) He joins an Arizona backfield that already hasJames ConnerandTyler Allgeierbut no long-term QB. But credit GM Monti Ossenfort for going best player available, regardless of position, something he didn't do three years ago when he moved out of the third spot and forfeited the opportunity to take DE Will Anderson Jr.— Nate Davis
Round 2, Pick 34:Chase Bisontis, OL, Texas A&M
Plug and play starter for a team that needs to fortify its front wall for whenever its next QB of the future arrives yet also needs improved blocking to unleash first-round RB Jeremiyah Love. Bisontis (6-5, 315) mostly played guard for the Aggies but can also play tackle in a pinch.— Nate Davis
Round 3, Pick 65:Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)
He had a 37-6 record during a college career split between Georgia and the 'Canes and came back from a UCL tear suffered with the Bulldogs in the 2024 SEC championship game. Beck also had to rehab his character a bit after moving to South Florida last season, where he and his team reaped positive results. Beck led the ACC with a 72.4% completion rate in 2025, throwing for a career-best 30 TDs while nearly leading the 'Canes to a national title. He lands with a team where he could compete to start at some point in 2026, career backupsJacoby BrissettandGardner MinshewII the competition.— Nate Davis
After all that speculation on a trade, Arizona stayed put and made Love the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley in 2018. Love can truly be a game-breaker in the right setting. But the Cardinals might have an extremely difficult time getting a return on investment in him that would justify this pick. Love will instantly become one of the NFL's highest-paid backs, meaning that extracting any surplus value on what should be a cost-controlled rookie deal will be extremely difficult. And as other highly drafted running backs have demonstrated, there's only so much that even the most talented ball carriers can do to revolutionize a ground game that has troubles starting up front. With little certainty behind center and a significant weakness at right tackle, Love might find it hard to find any running space early in his career.— Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz
Time to build up that front for Jeremiyah Love. While the glaring hole at right tackle remains, Bisontis can help fortify an uncertain interior. He's a good athlete who could become a long-term staple along the front if he cleans up some of his pass protection.— Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz
Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL) at No. 65 overall - Grade: D
It's understandable that Arizona might want to take a stab at finding a developmental quarterback. Beck, however, is a robotic passer who can wilt under pressure, and his decision-making and ball placement can be erratic. This doesn't move the needle much for a team preparing to roll with Jacoby Brissett. With so much work to do, Arizona should take a more patient approach to roster-building.— Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz
The Cardinals needed to add to their pass rushing rotation after spending their first three selections on offense. They probably needed an edge rusher more than a defensive tackle, but Proctor – a high-end athlete who generated nine sacks in his final year playing at Southeastern Louisiana, an FCS school – has the athleticism needed to emerge as a quality interior pass rusher at the NFL level.
143. WR Reggie Virgil, Texas Tech – Grade: B-
Monti Ossenfort continues to invest at the skill positions. Virgil can be an asset in the downfield passing game, but he could struggle to hold up against physical corners who challenge him off the line of scrimmage and at the catch point.
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152. TE Justin Joly, NC State – Grade: A-
It was pretty stunning to see Joly fall this far back in the tight end pecking order, but teams clearly showed a preference for in-line types. Joly isn't that, but he could still make significant contributions a move option, a laHarold Fannin Jr.He lands in a nearly ideal spot with Sean Payton as theBroncosenter the final year ofEvan Engram's deal.
183. LB Karson Sharar, Iowa – Grade: C+
Sharar was productive in his lone season as a starter at Iowa. He has good instincts, but he's a bit undersized for the position. He may be a core special teamer at the NFL level, but his upside is limited.
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217. OT Jayden Williams, Ole Miss – Grade: B
Many though the Cardinals would add a right tackle to the fold earlier. They wanted until Round 7 to land Williams, but he has a nice combination of power and experience. He could challenge journeymanElijah Wilkinsonfor playing time, so this is a nice final-round gamble.
Cardinals undrafted free agent signings
The Cardinals continue to build their roster by signing undrafted free agents. You can followthe complete team-by-team listfor all 32 here.
Cardinals 2026 NFL Draft needs
Quarterback
The Cardinals cut Kyler Murrayduring the offseason and currently have Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew projected to be their top quarterbacks. Arizona should look to add a developmental quarterback to that unit and may ultimately be the team that takes a chance onTy Simpson, whether it's with the 34th overall pick or via a trade up.
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Right tackle
Elijah Wilkinsonis currently penciled in as Arizona's starting right tackle. The veteran could be a solid stopgap option for the team, but adding a higher-upside bookend across fromParis Johnson Jr.would be wise. The Cardinals could consider a plug-and-play right tackle like Francis Mauigoa with their first-round selection, whether it's at No. 3 overall or via a trade down.
Edge rusher
Josh Sweathas been a productive edge rusher for the Cardinals, but no other returning member of the team had more than two sacks last season. Adding a star edge rusher like David Bailey or Arvell Reese with the No. 3 overall pick could help Arizona build up its defense and give Nick Rallis' unit an identity.
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Cardinals 2026 NFL mock draft
Here's what the Cardinals could do come draft night, per Ayrton Ostly's seven-round mock draft:
Round 1, Pick 3:LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Arizona is in a place where they have to take the best player available. At this spot, that's Reese. The Buckeyes linebacker has the tools to grow into an edge rusher while continuing to be a standout off-ball in the meantime. Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis could have fun deploying him all over the formation against the likes of Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan.
Round 2, Pick 34:DT Christen Miller, Georgia
Arizona has recent first-round picksDarius RobinsonandWalter Nolenon the defensive line, but has relied more on free agent signings to shore up the depth. Miller brings a high floor as a run defender with tools to develop as a pass rusher and could be the future alongside those two premium prospects.
Round 3, Pick 65:WR Bryce Lance, North Dakota State
Arizona builds up the skill positions around Simpson even more with one of the most explosive wideouts in the class. Lance is a big, fast target who can be the true vertical threat this offense needs.
