Arizona Cardinals finally find a difference maker on the their defensive line and add SEC star in latest 2026 NFL mock draft

The Arizona Cardinals are in quite an interesting spot as an organization right now. Head coach Jonathan Gannon has done some good things, but there is still a question as to whether he can unlock another level with this organization. Quarterback Kyler Murray is also entering that awkward period to determine whether this is going to get much better. 

Regardless of whether this regime is the one to get this Cardinals team over the top, this is a roster that still has a lot of room for improvement. That was the priority during the recent 2-round 2026 NFL mock draft. While defense was the name of the game in this one, the offense still went through a bit of a makeover as well. This ended up being a tremendous haul to build for the future. 

With the No. 12 pick in the mock draft, the Cardinals selected Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald. While he might not be a name everyone is familiar with, the 6-3, 326-pound behemoth has been one of the bigger risers in the defensive line class. Here is what I wrote about McDonald and his potential fit in Arizona. 

12. Arizona Cardinals: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State 

If you love massive nose tackles who can’t get moved off their spot, then you will love McDonald. The 6-3, 326-pound behemoth is also a much better mover than you might anticipate. The Cardinals have needed to add more quality players on the defensive interior in recent years, and that’s what McDonald potentially adds. – Roberts 

Improving the trenches

Quite simply, the Cardinals just haven’t had a difference maker on the interior of their defensive line. The box score may never tell the full story about how good McDonald is, but he instantly makes your run defense better. In five games this season for the Buckeyes, McDonald has managed to record 23 tackles, six tackles for loss, three sacks, and a forced fumble for the defense. 

In the second round of the mock draft, the Cardinals also selected Auburn center Connor Lew with the No. 44 overall selection. Still just 20 years old, the 6-3, 303-pound center has become a captain and top communicator for the Tiger offense. Lew is an impressive athlete who has the ability to play either of the three interior spots. 

The Cardinals need to become a more violent team on both sides of the football. This mock draft accomplishes that mission in a big way.