Arizona Cardinals Marvin Harrison Jr, Elijah Wilkinson Highlight Most Important Players in 2026

On this episode of Locked On Cardinals, Alex Clancy celebrates the Locked On Podcast Network's 10-year anniversary by breaking down his top 10 most important Arizona Cardinals players for the 2026 season—not just the biggest names, but those whose roles and contributions will have the greatest impact on the team’s on-field success. Alex Clancy explains why Marvin Harrison Jr. tops the list, not just as a high pick but as the potential offensive game-changer capable of elevating the entire unit if he takes the next step. The conversation moves beyond the obvious choices, highlighting key positions like right tackle, where Elijah Wilkinson's performance could make or break the Cardinals' run game and quarterback protection schemes. Jeremiyah Love, anticipated to become the heartbeat of the offense without having to carry it alone, takes a prominent spot. On defense, Alex Clancy stresses the importance of young talents like Walter Nolan—whose presence signals hope on the defensive line—and proven veteran pass rusher Josh Sweat. The potential impact of ascending corner Will Johnson and the pressure facing Garrett Williams are examined in detail. Consistent, reliable veterans like Trey McBride and Budda Baker are recognized for their foundational contributions, even as the list skews toward players with the most uncertainty and capacity to shift the Cardinals’ fortunes. Finally, the episode rounds out with Paris Johnson Jr., the solidifying force at left tackle, whose continued growth is crucial even if his steady play brings fewer surprises. Through this comprehensive rankings episode, listeners get deep analysis of personnel, future potential, and how the evolving roster can change the Cardinal's path as Alex Clancy looks ahead to a crucial season for the franchise. Let's discuss.   Photo Credit: Joe Camporeale - Imagn Images Everydayer ClubIf you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! RugietGet 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhlRugiet. Performance medicine for men. Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.  FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. Square If you’re starting a business, or running one that deserves better tools, Square helps you sell, manage, and grow without slowing down. Right now, you can get up to $200 off Square hardware at https://square.com/go/LockedOnNFL. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)     Find and follow Locked On Cardinals on your favorite podcast platforms:     Apple https://apple.co/3gzT6Pg Spotify https://spoti.fi/3wsOL7a Audacy https://bit.ly/3xdaqjU Stitcher https://bit.ly/3cFWffn Google https://buff.ly/2yH7WOl Megaphone https://bit.ly/2RUBlC5 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.