Arizona Cardinals figure out life after Kyler Murray, go through offensive makeover in latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft
Latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft launches the Arizona Cardinals into a new era.
The Arizona Cardinals are an organization in a very strange spot right now. There are very real concerns about quarterback Kyler Murray, his long-term confidence, and what this team should do to prepare accordingly. You also have a head coach in Jonathan Gannon who has done some good things during his tenure, but there are questions about whether he has already hit his ceiling.
Whatever the future holds for both Murray and Gannon, this is an organization that desperately needs to fill some holes on the roster currently. In the latest 7-round 2026 NFL mock draft, filling those was the top priority. That included finding a potential replacement for Murray, and upgrading the speed of this team.
Arizona Cardinals 7-round mock draft
Round 1, Pick 12: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Lomu is a young offensive tackle with all the upside in the world. As he has continued to add solid weight to his frame, his game has really flourished. The 6-6, 304-pound blindside protector is still just figuring out how good he can be.
Round 2, Pick 43: John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma
If you hit on a second round quarterback, that’s great. If you miss on a second round quarterback, most don’t remember. Mateer will need some time but he’s a gifted thrower of the football who also brings legitimate athleticism to the table.
Round 3, Pick 74: Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Branch is one of those players who can make a big play every time he touches the football. Whether it is as a punt returner or pass catcher, the former USC transfer can flip the momentum of a football game in a hurry.
Round 4, Pick 113: Demond Claiborne, RB, Wake Forest
While he isn’t the biggest back in the world, Claiborne has some legitimate lateral mobility and explosiveness. He is able to turn small gains into chunks plays often. That profile should fit well into a running back committee.
Round 5, Pick 152: Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
Sapp doesn’t play a flashy game, but he has a good first step and is really powerful. That profile is very attractive for a team in terms of building out depth. There should be a strong sticking point for the Florida defender.
Round 6, Pick 189: Raylen Wilson, LB, Georgia
If you like linebackers who can run, then you are going to love Wilson. From a pure athleticism perspective, there is a lot to work with here. Wilson’s eyes and feel for the game, however, is still a major work in progress.
Round 7, Pick 224: DeMonte Capehart. DT, Clemson
Capehart is a big physical defensive tackle with good power, and some first step explosiveness. Those are the building blocks for a nose tackle on the next level, although Capehart is still way too inconsistent. A defensive line coach will have a lot to work with.
Arizona Cardinals News
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