Report: Cardinals, Saints discussing expensive 2026 draft trade
Saints GM Mickey Loomis isn't known for his patience in the NFL draft. But this report about a trade up to third overall may be too rich even for him.
Mickey Loomis isn't known for taking a patient approach to the NFL draft. The New Orleans Saints general manager -- the longest-tenured GM active in the league today -- has traded up early and often over his decades of experience, and he could do so again in 2026. One team looking to move down is the Arizona Cardinals , currently scheduled to pick third overall on Thursday night.
And one of their beat reporters sees Arizona trading down with the Saints in Round 1. Here's more from Johnny Venerable for PHNX Sports . "They get pick eight from New Orleans.
They get pick 42 and they get pick 73. So no 2027 draft capital is exchanged with New Orleans," Venerable reasoned, adding, "I think that's the preference for these teams. In fact, I know it.
" Venerable also said that the Cardinals have discussed a trade down with the Kansas City Chiefs , who pick behind the Saints at No. 9. And both teams have the same targets in mind: pass rushers David Bailey and Arvell Reese.