Arizona Cardinals eye top-five pick in 2026 NFL Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Arizona Cardinals, particularly as the team grapples with a turbulent season. Since a promising start, the Cardinals have struggled significantly, and their recent defeat has only intensified their focus on securing a high draft pick.
Recent Struggles Intensify Draft Hopes
Following a tough 40-20 loss to the Houston Texans in Week 15, the Cardinals fell to a disheartening 3-11 record. This defeat marked their 11th loss in the last 12 games, a stark reminder of the challenges they have faced throughout the season. However, this losing streak has coincided with a climb up the draft order, positioning Arizona favorably for the upcoming draft.
Currently, the Cardinals hold the sixth overall pick, with three games left to play. The current draft order reflects their precarious position:
New York Giants (2-12)
Las Vegas Raiders (2-12)
Tennessee Titans (2-12)
Cleveland Browns (3-11)
New York Jets (3-11)
Arizona Cardinals (3-11)
New Orleans Saints (4-10)
Washington Commanders (4-10)
Cincinnati Bengals (4-10)
Los Angeles Rams (via ATL Falcons, 5-9)
If the Cardinals fail to win any of their remaining games, they are guaranteed to remain at least in the sixth spot, due to the one-game gap between them and the teams above them in the standings.
Understanding the Draft Order Dynamics
The draft order is determined by several factors, with strength of schedule serving as the first tie-breaker. This explains why the Cardinals sit at sixth despite being one of several teams with a 3-11 record. Analysis indicates that Arizona has effectively locked in a top ten pick for 2026, with a 58% chance of landing in the top five. However, their odds of securing the coveted No. 1 pick stand at a mere 2%.
As they look ahead, the Cardinals are favored to win only one of their remaining three games, which is against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 16. The outcomes of these final games will be crucial, not just for the team’s morale but also for shaping their future through the draft.
The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but for the Cardinals, the opportunity to rebuild through the draft looms large, offering a glimmer of hope amid a disheartening season.
