Revenge of the Birds
After being mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, draft season is here in Arizona. The Cardinals will have seven draft picks to upgrade the roster, hoping for a better season in 2026.
What might general manager Monti Ossenfort do come April? Based on their current positions of need, here is a very early look at how the first two days could play out.
The Cardinals are set at the left tackle spot with Paris Johnson Jr., but right tackle sits atop the priority list, with Jonah Williams set to be a free agent at the end of the season. Fano would solidify the spot and be a starter from Day 1. Fano possesses rare movement skills, athleticism for his size and refined technique to handle pass rushers. He has allowed the least amount of quarterback pressures among all FBS tackles (1.4%). And he gets the dirty work done in the running game.
No matter who is under center, the Cardinals must improve the offensive line as a whole, which is why they double-dip along the trenches. Pregnon plays with a nasty demeanor, heavy hands, and a strong anchor in pass protection, as well as the strength to move bodies in the run game. He has paved the way for an Oregon offense that is averaging 6.1 yards per carry (third in the nation). Pregnon has plenty of starting experience, with over 25 starts at left guard and right guard experience from his time at Wyoming, USC, and Oregon, so he is capable of playing on either side.
After beefing up the offensive line, the Cardinals could go a variety of ways with their third-round selection. But I love the idea of them addressing the safety room, with Jalen Thompson’s contract expiring and Budda Baker set to be 30 next season. Smith has been a stud in the Wildcats’ defensive backfield. He is a versatile defender who has the frame, play speed, range, and toughness to be a successful three-level defender at the next level. This season, Smith has 77 tackles, eight passes defended, two forced fumbles, and an interception.
