Cardinals Trade Up to Second Overall Pick in Blockbuster NFL Draft Deal

The Arizona Cardinals sent shockwaves through the NFL on Wednesday by completing a blockbuster trade with the Washington Commanders to move up to the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, setting up what could be a franchise-altering selection.

Arizona parted with their fourth overall pick, next year's first-round selection, a third-round pick in 2026, and veteran wide receiver Marquise Brown to secure the coveted second slot. The move signals the Cardinals' intention to select a quarterback to potentially replace the aging Kyler Murray.

"We identified a player we believe can transform our franchise for the next decade," Cardinals General Manager Monti Ossenfort said in a statement. "Sometimes you have to make bold moves to secure the future of your organization."

The trade comes as USC quarterback Caleb Williams is widely expected to go first overall to the Chicago Bears, leaving the Cardinals in prime position to select North Carolina's Drake Maye, who many scouts consider the second-best quarterback prospect in the draft.

Maye, who threw for 4,321 yards and 38 touchdowns in his final college season, has drawn comparisons to Josh Allen for his combination of arm strength and mobility. The 6-foot-4 signal-caller has impressed scouts with his ability to make throws from any platform and his natural leadership qualities.

The move represents a significant gamble for the Cardinals, who are effectively betting their immediate future on landing a franchise quarterback. Murray, 29, is coming off a solid season but has struggled with consistency and injuries throughout his career. The Cardinals finished 8-9 last season, missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year.

Washington, meanwhile, gains valuable draft capital and a proven receiver in Brown, who caught 51 passes for 789 yards last season. The Commanders are expected to use their newfound picks to address multiple needs on both sides of the ball as they continue their rebuild under head coach Dan Quinn.