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The 2026 NFL draft is approaching, with a mock draft projecting the Arizona Cardinals to focus on defense early while rebuilding their offense, including a potential franchise quarterback.
We are just days away from the 2026 NFL draft, and that means some final mock drafts. What direction will the draft take the Arizona Cardinals?
Draft Wire's Curt Popejoy put together a four-round mock draft for the Cardinals. They go defense early but rebuild the offense for 2026 and moving forward, including landing their potential franchise quarterback.
Here are the players in the first four rounds Popejoy projects for Arizona.
The Cardinals want to trade out of the third pick and draft a tackle, so not getting a tackle until Round 4 seems unlikely, although they did meet with Barber. They do have options at right tackle for 2026 already on the roster.
Reese would be a great pick if they don't trade back, as they badly need pass-rushing help off the edge.
Drafting Simpson seems inevitable at this point, so it has to be in a mock draft, although the feeling is they will need to go up into Round 1 again to get him.
Williams has speed and is almost six feet tall, but he does have short arms.
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The mock draft outlines the players projected for the Cardinals in the first four rounds, emphasizing a defensive focus and offensive rebuild.
The mock draft suggests the Cardinals will target a potential franchise quarterback as part of their offensive rebuild.
The draft is crucial for the Cardinals as it aims to strengthen their defense and revamp their offense for future success.

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This article originally appeared on Cards Wire: NFL mock draft: 4-round projections for Arizona Cardinals