Cardinals Draft Focuses on Run Game, Defense

0:00It's April 26th, NFL News Today starts now, AI powered and game ready. I'm Corey with the story. The Arizona Cardinals just wrapped their 2026 draft without trading up or down, holding all seven original picks. They focused on building depth, especially pumping up their rushing attack after one of the league's weakest ground games last year. First two picks went to Running Back, Jeremiah Love, a top prospect for explosive plays, and right guard chased by Sonsis, locking down four or five. Offensive line spots with free agent Isaac Somalow at left guard. Earlier this week, GM Monty Osonfort talked up their edge rush room, betting big on guys like Baron Browning, Zaven Collins, BJ Ojalari, coming off. Injury, and second year Jordan Birch, they passed on early draft talent there despite needs opposite Josh Sweat, figuring experience and positioning will get it done instead of chasing new, firepower. Fans and analysts race eyebrows at Wright Tackle, where they signed vets like Elijah Wilkinson

1:01who started 16 games for Atlanta last year, but, great at low. They waited till the final round for another tackle, leaving Wilkinson as the likely starter with his versatility across positions. Meanwhile, third round pick Carson Beck at 65 overall has folks buzzing as a young QB behind Jacobi Brissett and Gardner Minchew. He's not the full commitment, keeping doors open for 2027's class if he doesn't hand out, just a smart developmental lottery ticket. All in, the cards double down on run first offense under Michael Flore, while banking on current pieces to step up on defense and the line. Training camp will show if this quiet draft sparks real contention.