GLENDALE – This offseason will be a busy time for Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort. Not only will he be leading the team’s coaching search, but will have a crucial decision to make with the third overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft. With the franchise expected to move on from seven-year starting QB Kyler Murray, many expected Ossenfort to try to find a replacement.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!However, the problem relies with this year’s draft class being a two quarterback class and two teams in front of Arizona that needs quarterbacks in Las Vegas Raiders and New York Jets. The Score’s Dan Wilkins understands that dilemma and has Ossenfort pivoting to take Utah offensive lineman Spencer Fano.
Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort watches training camp at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on July 28, 2025. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Wilkins have Cardinals taking Fano:
“Arizona may have to go with a veteran quarterback given such a thin rookie class at the position. Finding a right tackle to slot in opposite Paris Johnson Jr. long term will be critical for that passer’s chances of success. The Cardinals surrendered 59 sacks this season, their most since 1997.”
Oct 18, 2025; Provo, Utah, USA; Utah Utes offensive lineman Spencer Fano (55) waits for the play against the BYU Cougars during the first half at LaVell Edwards Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rob Gray-Imagn Images
CBS Sports have Fano as the eighth best overall prospect, while ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has him at 14th and the second best offensive lineman. Despite allowing zero sacks in 12 games across 2025, Kiper has Miami’s Francis Mauigoa ahead of him. Regardless of his placement amongst experts, Fano is a pro.
The All-American is 6’6 and north of 300 pounds. Fano’s wide frame can help solidify Arizona’s offensive line that took a massive step back last season. The 22-year-old will match up well with offensive lineman Paris Johnson Jr., as the pair of tackles will be a force by blocking from both angles. Johnson has been a solid and consistent OL for the Cardinals since being drafted in 2023, and Fano could join him to help protect the next franchise quarterback.
Cardinals fired head coach Jonathan Gannon, keep GM Monti Ossenfort
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
