NFL Mock Draft: Cardinals Projected to Take Franchise QB Out of SEC

A mock draft by Nate Tice of Yahoo Sports projects the Arizona Cardinals to select Missouri quarterback Austin Simmons with the No. 9 overall pick. Tice highlights the 20-year-old passer's arm talent and fit in offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur's system. Simmons is projected as the third quarterback taken, trailing Arch Manning and Drew Mestemaker.

Dan Morrison notes that Arizona currently relies on veteran bridge quarterback Jacoby Brissett alongside rookie Carson Beck. Simmons, who transferred to Missouri from Ole Miss, has thrown for 1,287 yards, 13 touchdowns, and zero interceptions while leading Missouri to a 4-1 record through five games.