Arizona Cardinals' 2026 NFL Draft: Top 3 Picks for No. 3 Overall Selection

The Arizona Cardinals are set to make the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, though trade rumors continue to swirl around the selection. The action kicks off on Thursday night, with analysts and fans closely monitoring the Cardinals’ next move.

Trade Speculation Looms Over Cardinals’ No. 3 Pick

Multiple mock drafts this week, including those from ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. and NFL.com’s Gennaro Filice, suggest the Cardinals may explore a trade involving the No. 3 pick. While the specifics vary, the Cardinals could either retain the selection or trade down to acquire additional assets for a long-term quarterback or offensive tackle.

FanDuel Sportsbook’s NFL Draft Number 3 Overall Pick market reflects the uncertainty, with shifting odds as new information emerges.

Top Contenders for Arizona’s No. 3 Pick

1. David Bailey (Texas Tech, EDGE) – +150

Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey has emerged as a frontrunner for the No. 3 pick, with FanDuel currently listing him at +150 odds. Bailey is the top defensive talent remaining after quarterback Francisco Mendoza, making him a prime candidate if the Cardinals prioritize pass rush.

In the latest SB Nation mock draft by James Dator, Arizona retains the No. 3 pick and selects Bailey to bolster its defensive line.

2. Arvell Reese (Ohio State, LB) – +210

Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is the FanDuel favorite for the No. 2 pick at -150 odds, leaving Bailey as the most likely defensive option at No. 3. Reese’s versatility and playmaking ability make him an attractive target for the Cardinals, particularly if they seek an immediate impact linebacker.

3. Francis Mauigoa (Miami (FL), OT) – +420

Miami (FL) offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa is a strong sleeper candidate for the No. 3 pick, currently listed at +420 odds by FanDuel. Mauigoa has been frequently linked to the Cardinals in previous mock drafts, and his selection would address a critical need on the offensive line.

However, concerns about Mauigoa’s back health could impact his draft stock. If he clears medical evaluations, Arizona may consider him as part of its offseason overhaul.

Wildcard: Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame, RB) – +950

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is a wildcard option at No. 3, with FanDuel favoring him for the No. 4 pick at the Tennessee Titans (+100 odds). If another team covets Love and seeks to move up, the Cardinals could facilitate a trade, jumping over Tennessee to secure the dynamic playmaker.

Other Notable Prospects for the No. 3 Pick

• Sonny Styles (Ohio State, LB) – +1800
• Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami (FL), EDGE) – +1800
• Spencer Fano (Utah, OT) – +2700

These prospects round out the list of potential options for the Cardinals, though their odds suggest they are less likely to be selected at No. 3.