The 2026 NFL Mock Draft entered its second day with continued focus on quarterback prospects, as analysts projected Carson Beck to be selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 65th overall pick. This projection places Beck at the top of the third round in the simulated draft scenario, marking him as the next quarterback off the board after the first two rounds concluded.
The projection emerged during a live broadcast by CBS Sports, where draft analysts evaluated Beck’s collegiate performance at the University of Georgia and his fit within Arizona’s offensive scheme under fresh head coach Jonathan Gannon. The mock drill is part of a broader evaluation process ahead of the actual 2026 NFL Draft, scheduled for late April.
Beck, a redshirt junior, completed the 2025 season with 3,842 passing yards, 29 touchdowns and only eight interceptions while leading the Bulldogs to a 12-1 record and a berth in the College Football Playoff. His accuracy, pocket presence, and ability to read complex coverages have drawn consistent praise from scouts and analysts throughout the pre-draft process.
According to the mock draft scenario presented by CBS Sports, the Cardinals’ selection of Beck at No. 65 reflects a strategic move to develop a young quarterback behind veteran Kyler Murray, who is entering the final year of his current contract. Arizona has not publicly confirmed any draft plans, and the projection remains speculative.
The mock draft format allows analysts to simulate team needs, draft board tendencies, and player valuations based on combine results, pro day performances, and film evaluation. While such projections are not binding, they often influence public perception and media narratives in the weeks leading up to the actual draft.
Beck’s projected landing spot with Arizona also highlights the Cardinals’ ongoing evaluation of their quarterback depth. The team has invested in offensive line protection and receiving talent in recent free agency periods, suggesting a commitment to supporting a young signal-caller if one is drafted.
As of the latest update, no official statements have been released by the Cardinals’ front office regarding their intentions for the 2026 draft. General Manager Monti Ossenfort has emphasized a “best player available” approach in previous press conferences but has not commented specifically on quarterback priorities.
The 2026 NFL Draft will proceed over three days, with Round 1 on April 23, Rounds 2-3 on April 24, and Rounds 4-7 on April 25. Mock drafts like the one featuring Beck’s projection serve as part of the pre-draft discourse but do not predict actual selections.
For ongoing updates on the 2026 NFL Draft process, including player visits, workouts, and official team statements, continue to follow coverage from verified sports news outlets and the NFL’s official channels.
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