Overview
- Brissett reported to mandatory minicamp in early June but did not fully participate while continuing to seek a reworked deal with substantially higher guarantees than his roughly $1.5 million now promised for 2026.
- The Cardinals have not named a starter and head coach Mike LaFleur said he is focused on player preparation rather than declaring a QB1, leaving the decision likely to be settled by training camp starting July 22 or an agreed contract change.
- Arizona added veteran Gardner Minshew in free agency and drafted Carson Beck, both of whom have taken first‑team reps in OTAs and created a practical competition that reduces the team’s short‑term incentive to give Brissett long‑term starter money.
- Analysts note Brissett’s leverage comes from starting 12 games in 2025 (3,366 yards and 23 touchdowns) and from market comparisons showing some non‑rookie backups have larger guarantees, but the club has reasons to hold firm given its rebuilding timeline.
- If a compromise is not reached before training camp, Brissett faces fines for missing camp while the Cardinals will use on‑field reps to evaluate Minshew and Beck, a process that could determine roster decisions and influence next season’s salary plans.