The Arizona Cardinals have the No. 3 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, and could go any number of ways with the pick.
With needs at quarterback, offensive line, edge rusher and even running back, Arizona has the potential to turn the draft upside with either a surprise pick, or even a trade. It’s because of those near limitless options that ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. says that the Cardinals are the main characters in this NFL Draft.
“Arizona holds the key to this entire draft after the first two picks in my opinion,” said Kiper. “Because they, to me, are a trade down option. I think Arizona is going to be a team I’m going to look at and say ‘That was a little too high for an offensive tackle.’ Or, do they take somebody else and throw a little curveball in there?”
Mel Kiper Jr. Says the Cardinals Hold the Key to the Entire NFL Draft
The Cardinals’ biggest need is arguably offensive tackle, but there aren’t many options that would warrant using the third-overall pick. So if Arizona is set on drafting a tackle in the first-round, a trade down would be on the table, and Kiper is all for it.
“You can look at [Spencer] Fano from Utah, [Kaydn] Proctor from Alabama, [Monroe] Freeling from Georgia, factor in [Francis] Mauigoa. You trade down, you’re going to get one of those guys. You’ll have your pick. You can still get your guy by trading down,” continued Kiper.
While tackle is a strong position in this year’s draft, none of the prospects are expected to go in the top-five, which makes Arizona the first real trade-down candidate in this draft. But with rumors that the Cardinals may take running back Jeremiyah Love or even potentially linebacker Arvell Reese if he drops, there will be plenty of eyes on Arizona when the clock starts.
Who Might the Cardinals Take at No. 3 Overall?
Kiper has the Cardinals landing Reese in his latest mock draft, addressing their need for some pass rush help. It would be a good pick, but there’s no guarantee he will still be on the board at No. 3. If Arizona lands him will depend on how the New York Jets view the Ohio State star.
“The Cardinals weren’t much better than the Jets in the sack department, tying for 28th with 30,” wrote Kiper. “Josh Sweat needs a running mate, and Reese has the instincts and burst to get home on the QB. Of course, Reese also played off-ball linebacker at Ohio State, and though he said during the combine that he would be an NFL edge rusher, that sort of versatility is a big plus. He had 6.5 sacks and nine tackles for loss last season.”
Ultimately, Arizona has the benefit, or the burden, of having multiple needs to address. That type of versatility will allow them to draft the best player available and even trade down. Kiper seems to think that the draft opens up at No. 3, and time will tell if he’s right.
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