The Arizona Cardinals find themselves in a bit of a quarterback conundrum this offseason, and veteran signal-caller Jacoby Brissett is at the center of it. Coming off what was statistically his best season as a pro, Brissett entered 2026 viewed as the likely starter following Kyler Murray's release. Even with the additions of free agent Gardner Minshew and third-round rookie Carson Beck, the job seemed his to lose.
But here's where things get complicated: Brissett isn't happy with his current contract. He's slated to earn roughly $4.9 million in base salary plus up to $510,000 in per-game roster bonuses. That's solid backup money, but it's a far cry from what even a low-end starting quarterback commands. Reports indicate he's seeking a multi-year deal that pays him like a starter. To make his point, he's opted to stay away from voluntary offseason workouts.
The problem? Brissett may not have the leverage he thinks he does. Yes, he set career highs in passing yards and touchdowns. Yes, wide receiver Michael Wilson and tight end Trey McBride enjoyed career years with him under center. But the Cardinals went just 1-11 in his starts, including an 0-9 stretch once the job was officially his. Over the final nine games, the offense averaged only 18.7 points per game. Plenty of yards, not enough points.
Arizona responded by signing Minshew, who brings 47 career starts of his own, and drafting Beck, a 43-game college starter. In terms of skill and starting caliber, Brissett and Minshew are widely seen as equals. Throw in a new head coach and offensive system—one Minshew has been actively learning while Brissett sits out—and the leverage equation shifts. Brissett hasn't worked in this system, so he can't claim an experience advantage.
The Cardinals have reportedly left the door open to accommodating Brissett's wishes, and general manager Monti Ossenfort said during the draft that "things are in a good spot" regarding the contract situation. But as any seasoned NFL observer knows, being in a "good spot" and having real negotiating power are two very different things. For Brissett, the path to a bigger payday may require more than just a career year—it might require showing up and proving he's indispensable.