Mel Kiper Jr. 2026 NFL Mock Draft has the Arizona Cardinals trading up for a quarterback

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - DECEMBER 06: Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese (8) rushes into the backfield during the Big 10 Championship game between the Ohio State Buckeyes and Indiana Hoosiers on December 6, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN. (Photo by Zach Bolinger/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images As we are finally a week away, the Arizona Cardinals and the rest of the NFL are going to end the parade of 2026 NFL Mock Drafts. Yet, when Mel Kiper Jr.

talks, we listen. Mel dropped a new two-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft and has the Arizona Cardinals sticking and picking at three, but then moving up a couple of spots to get their quarterback of the future. From ESPN: 3.

Arizona Cardinals Arvell Reese, OLB, Ohio State New coach Mike LaFleur will want some foundational players on his defense, and Reese has a sky-high ceiling. He has extended experience at off-ball linebacker and off the edge, and Arizona could use him at either spot. His future is probably rushing the passer, though, and he had 6.

5 sacks last season. The Cardinals — who were in the bottom five in pressure rate (28. 5%) last season — need someone such as Reese opposite Josh Sweat in a division that features quarterbacks Matthew Stafford, Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy.