Cardinals land potential QB of the future in third round

Cardinals land potential QB of the future in third round originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The Arizona Cardinals made a notable addition to their quarterback room by selecting Carson Beck in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, a move that could have significant implications for the franchise’s future under center. After speculation that Beck might come off the board earlier, Arizona showed patience before landing a player many evaluators believe has starting-caliber potential.

Beck enters the NFL with a strong foundation, having operated in pro-style systems throughout his college career. That experience is expected to ease his transition to the professional level, particularly when it comes to processing defenses and adapting to complex offensive terminology. Scouts have consistently praised his mental approach, noting his ability to read coverages and work through progressions without unnecessary panic.

Mechanically, Beck offers a polished profile. His throwing motion is clean and repeatable, allowing him to deliver the ball on time and with consistent accuracy. Whether targeting short routes, intermediate windows, or pushing the ball downfield, Beck has demonstrated both the arm strength and precision required to execute a full NFL playbook. His ability to maintain consistent mechanics across all levels of the field is a key reason evaluators view him as pro-ready.

Beck Joins Cardinals with Chance to Compete for Starting QB Role

Another strength in Beck’s game is his composure within the pocket. When protected, he shows the ability to control games with rhythm and timing. He’s comfortable getting to his checkdown options and rarely forces plays when operating within structure. However, like many young quarterbacks, his performance can dip under pressure. Scouts have noted that his processing speed decreases when the pocket collapses, sometimes leading to errant throws or questionable decisions.

Arizona’s quarterback situation adds intrigue to this selection. With the team moving on from Kyler Murray and currently relying on veteran Jacoby Brissett, there is a clear opportunity for Beck to compete for playing time early in his career. While third-round quarterbacks are not always expected to develop into long-term starters, Beck’s skill set and experience give him a legitimate chance to exceed expectations.