Cardinals Weigh Options at No. 3 as Jeremiyah Love Gains Momentum

The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2026 NFL Draft in a uniquely influential position, holding the No. 3 overall pick in a class where the top selections are widely expected to go elsewhere. With the Las Vegas Raiders projected to take quarterback Fernando Mendoza at No. 1 and the New York Jets expected to address edge rusher at No. 2, Arizona effectively becomes the first major decision point of the draft.

That positioning has fueled significant speculation around how the Cardinals will approach their selection. With no clear franchise quarterback available at No. 3, discussions have centered on whether the team could trade back to accumulate future assets or remain in place and target other areas of need.

Defensive reinforcements have been part of the conversation, including pass-rushing help or potential linebacker options such as Sonny Styles from Ohio State. However, one offensive name has continued to gain traction as a serious possibility.

That player is Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, whose rising profile has positioned him as one of the most intriguing prospects in the top half of the draft.

1. Cardinals Face Key Decision at No. 3

With the first two selections widely anticipated, Arizona’s draft board begins to take shape in a more flexible range. The absence of a consensus quarterback at No. 3 opens the door for alternative strategies. Trading down remains one option under consideration, particularly if the front office believes it can acquire additional draft capital for future seasons. That approach would align with longer-term roster building. However, staying at No. 3 would suggest confidence in available top-tier talent outside the quarterback position. In that scenario, Arizona would likely prioritize a player who can contribute immediately. The decision ultimately reflects a broader organizational question: whether to prioritize long-term flexibility or immediate offensive impact in the first round.

2. Love Emerges as Strong Offensive Fit

Among the names linked to the Cardinals, Love has gained notable momentum due to both his production and fit within Arizona’s offensive plans. According to reporting from Vincent Bonsignore, multiple factors inside the organization could support selecting him early. Those factors reportedly include alignment between front office evaluation, ownership interest in boosting offensive excitement, and a new offensive-minded coaching approach. Together, they create a scenario where Love becomes a highly viable option. On the field, Love offers the kind of explosiveness the Cardinals have lacked in recent seasons. His ability to generate big plays in both the run and pass game makes him a versatile offensive weapon. With Arizona expected to start Jacoby Brissett at quarterback, strengthening the ground game could help stabilize the offense and reduce pressure on the passing attack in 2026.

3. Elite Production Elevates Draft Stock

Love’s collegiate résumé has placed him among the top offensive prospects in this class. In 2025, he rushed for 1,372 yards on 199 carries and scored 18 touchdowns, solidifying his status as a consistent and dynamic playmaker. His performance also earned him recognition as a Heisman Trophy finalist, further elevating his draft stock heading into the pre-draft process. In a class viewed as relatively thin at running back, his profile stands out even more. That scarcity at the position increases the likelihood that teams picking in the top 10 will strongly consider him. As a result, Arizona’s position at No. 3 could effectively give them first access to one of the most productive backs in recent college football seasons. If selected, Love would immediately become a focal point of the Cardinals’ offensive identity under new coordinator Mike LaFleur, who is expected to emphasize playmaking versatility and balance.