The Arizona Cardinals are stepping into a new chapter as they prepare to officially part ways with former starting quarterback Kyler Murray. This shift will occur when the new league year kicks off this Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET.
While previous reports connected the Cardinals with Green Bay Packers backup Malik Willis and Los Angeles Rams' journeyman Jimmy Garoppolo, Monday brought a twist. Arizona has inked a one-year deal with former Kansas City Chiefs backup Gardner Minshew.
So, is Jacoby Brissett already a free agency winner?
According to insights from Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro and ESPN's Adam Schefter, Minshew is set to start spring workouts as Brissett's primary backup on the Cardinals' depth chart.
There was chatter that Willis might snag the starting role in Arizona, but he instead landed a lucrative three-year, $67.5 million contract with the Miami Dolphins, with $45 million fully guaranteed.
Ben Volin of the Boston Globe shed light on the situation, revealing that negotiations with Garoppolo hit a snag, leading Arizona to pivot to Minshew. It's unclear if Garoppolo was seeking a starting opportunity that might already be earmarked for Brissett.
The Cardinals clearly have no intention of losing Jacoby Brissett.
Back in February, a report suggested the New York Jets might be eyeing Brissett to start for them later this year. However, with Brissett under contract for next season, it looks like the 33-year-old is staying put.
Brissett's recent stats paint an interesting picture. According to Pro Football Reference, he finished the last regular season ranked 33rd in the NFL among qualified players with a 41.2 adjusted QBR and tied for 15th with a 94.1 passer rating. Despite winning just one of 12 starts, he threw 23 touchdown passes against only eight interceptions over 14 appearances.
This dynamic quarterback shuffle sets the stage for an intriguing season ahead for the Cardinals.