The Arizona Cardinals have made a major move ahead of the 2026 NFL draft. They released quarterback Kyler Murray, meaning they are looking for a complete reset at the position.
The Cardinals roster has multiple holes at QB, pass rush, offensive line and depth. Therefore, they would most probably be looking to pick the best player available early and add a high-upside QB later.
With that in mind, let’s project the players the Cardinals can go after in the first round.
Arizona Cardinals First Round Picks Projection
The Cardinals hold the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
1. Arvell Reese: EDGE, Ohio State
The Cardinals could use the third overall pick to draft Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese. He can provide immediate impact as a pass rusher and run defender. He recorded 6.5 sacks last season and is a versatile defender.
Instead of going after high-end quarterback, the Cardinals can bolster their defense with this pick.
2. Jeremiyah Love: RB, Notre Dame
The running back is not the immediate need for the Cardinals but Mike LaFleur wants a dual-threat offensive option, who can run through defense and also be versatile enough to catch receptions. If that’s the case, drafting Jeremiyah Love should be a no-brainer. The Fighting Irish amassed 1,372 rushing yards and 18 TDs last season.
3. Rueben Bain Jr.: EDGE, Miami
As we saw in Miami’s championship run, Reuben Bain Jr. can change the game on its head. The Cardinals need someone who can do that for them on the defensive line.
He is a consensus All-American and ACC Defensive Player of the Year. He is ranked among the top EDGE prospects in the entire draft class. However, Bain Jr. has slightly shorter arms (around 30 7/8”), meaning he could struggle disengaging in longer tackles.
Despite that, it’s not a good enough reason to turn him down in the first round.
Arizona Cardinals Projected Picks in Next Two Rounds
Round 2 (Pick 34): Max Iheanachor (OT, Arizona State)
The Cardinals can immediately start Max Iheanacho at right tackle. He is a proven commodity when it comes to defending against big pass rushers and can develop into a great offensive lineman in the coming years.
Round 3 (Pick 65): QB Carson Beck (Miami)
With Kyler Murray released, the Cardinals will need a top quarterback prospect to replace him. They can consider drafting Carson Beck, who, after returning from a UCL injury, took the Miami Hurricanes into the national championship game this past season. He figures to be a smart value in Round 3.
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