With the 2026 NFL Draft on the horizon, the Arizona Cardinals hold the 143rd overall pick—a fifth-round selection that often uncovers hidden gems. Day 3 of the draft is where savvy teams find developmental talent, special teams standouts, and future rotational players who can grow into key contributors. So, what kind of player might the Cardinals land? Let's look back at the last decade of picks at No. 143 for some clues.

The recent history of this slot shows a promising trend of finding reliable NFL talent. In 2018, the New England Patriots selected linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley, who developed into a defensive leader and a cornerstone of their defense. Other notable names include offensive lineman Ben Bredeson, a solid starter, and defensive lineman Joshua Paschal, who has shown flashes of high-end potential. These players exemplify the value that can be found in the middle rounds—contributors who may not be day-one stars but who carve out important roles on their teams.

For the Cardinals, this pick represents a crucial opportunity to add depth and competition to the roster. Whether it's a tenacious linebacker, a versatile offensive lineman, or a dynamic special teams ace, the goal is to find a player with the work ethic and talent to outperform his draft position. The history of pick No. 143 suggests that a solid, impactful NFL career is well within reach for the prospect who hears his name called here.