With Kyler Murray's departure, the Arizona Cardinals are in search of a new starting quarterback. The buzz around town suggests Jacoby Brissett might step into that role, but that news hasn't reached Brissett just yet.
According to insider reports, Brissett hasn't been officially informed about starting the 2026 season as QB1. He's still under contract, set to earn a base salary of $4.88 million this season. Meanwhile, Arizona has signed Gardner Minshew to a one-year deal worth approximately $5.75 million, which could increase to $8.25 million with incentives.
Breaking down Brissett's deal, it includes a $4.88 million base salary, $510,000 in per-game active roster bonuses, and a $50,000 workout bonus, totaling $5.44 million. Even with potential incentives, his earnings still fall short of Minshew's maximum package.
Neither contract screams "starter material." To put it in perspective, last year's veteran starter market saw Giants' quarterback Russell Wilson with a base package of $10.5 million, and he only started three games.
Looking ahead, it seems likely that Brissett might eventually be on the move. Minshew could serve as the backup, while the Cardinals seek out a new starter to lead the team.