ESPN’s Peter Schrager says Cardinals could draft ‘wild card’ at No. 3 pick

On paper, drafting a running back third overall feels inefficient as the Cardinals already recommitted to James Conner and added Tyler Allgeier on a two-year, $12.25 million deal. Arizona’s quarterback room, which features Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew, doesn’t scream vertical explosiveness. That’s where Love could enter the equation and bring a whole different dynamic to Arizona’s offense. With the future of both Conner and Allgeier in question, Love could also be the Cardinals’ RB of the future.

Love isn’t just depth; it’s multiplicity. At Notre Dame, his yards-after-contact rate and explosive play percentage both ranked among the nation’s best, metrics that translate directly to easing quarterback burden. Pairing him with Conner creates a dual-threat backfield capable of dictating tempo, controlling possession, and manufacturing offense without elite quarterback play.

For Cards fans, this isn’t about drafting a position; it’s about drafting identity. A Love-Conner tandem for the time being could anchor a top-10 rushing attack, shorten games, and keep Arizona competitive while it searches for its long-term answer under center. Safe picks maintain rosters, but wild cards can redefine them. If Arizona leans into Love, it’s not reaching; it’s committing to a vision where offense flows through physicality, not uncertainty.