Cardinals Fans Are Split Down the Middle on Draft QB Decision

The Arizona Cardinals have a big decision to make at quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 8:10pm

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented geometric shapes in red, blue, and gold, conceptually representing the difficult tradeoffs the Cardinals face in selecting their next quarterback.The Cardinals' quarterback decision is a complex one, with fans split on the best path forward.Indianapolis Today

The Arizona Cardinals are in need of a new starting quarterback, and their fans are divided on the best approach. One option is to trade up in the draft to select Alabama's Ty Simpson, a one-year starter with high upside but limited experience. The other is to wait until the later rounds and take a chance on Penn State's Drew Allar, who has prototypical size and arm strength but saw his draft stock plummet after a tough 2025 season. Both moves have their pros and cons, and the Cardinals will have to weigh them carefully as they look to find their next franchise QB.

Why it matters

The Cardinals' decision on how to address their quarterback situation will have major implications for the future of the franchise. Selecting the right passer is crucial, as they look to build a contender around their next signal-caller. The debate among fans highlights the difficult tradeoffs the team must consider between upside and risk.

The details

The Cardinals have the 34th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, and could potentially trade up to select Alabama QB Ty Simpson in the first round. Simpson is an intriguing prospect with a strong arm and playmaking ability, but he started just one season in college and has questions about his frame and lack of experience. Alternatively, the Cardinals could wait until the later rounds and take a chance on Penn State's Drew Allar, who has prototypical size and talent but saw his draft stock plummet after a tough 2025 season.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026.
  • The Cardinals currently hold the 34th overall pick in the second round.

The players

Ty Simpson

A one-year starting quarterback at Alabama who flashed big-play ability but has questions about his frame and lack of experience.

Drew Allar

A quarterback prospect from Penn State who has prototypical size and arm strength, but saw his draft stock plummet after a tough 2025 season.

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What they’re saying

“Would you rather, #AZCardinals draft edition:”

— Donnie Druin, Sports Writer

What’s next

The Cardinals will have to weigh the pros and cons of each quarterback option as they determine the best path forward in the 2026 NFL Draft.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' decision on how to address their quarterback situation will be a pivotal one for the future of the franchise. Selecting the right passer, whether it's trading up for Ty Simpson or taking a chance on Drew Allar later in the draft, will be crucial as the team looks to build a contender around their next signal-caller.