GLENDALE – Despite early reports, the Arizona Cardinals still haven’t made a decision of who will be under center to start the 2026 season. Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro reported on Monday that the signing of free agent QB Gardner Mishew was done for a backup role, as Jacoby Brissett will be the starter next year. However, ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss took to social media to refute that claim, as the franchise hasn’t told Brissett that he is the starter in 2026.
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Jan 4, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) throws downfield against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Brissett not confirmed to be starter in 2026:
The 32-year-old started 12 games last season and went 1-11. After missing out on highly-coveted free agent Malik Willis, general manager Monti Ossenfort pivoted to signing Mishew to a $5.75 million deal. The pair of QBs are each on one-year deals combining for around $9 million, proving that they are likely short-term options for Arizona.
Ossenfort could try a third quarterback in the draft, like Alabama’s Ty Simpson, to fill out the QB room. With limited resources or direction given to the quarterbacks on the roster, it might signal the team’s intention to tank for next season.
Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort (left) with his new head coach Mike LaFleur at a news conference on Feb. 3, 2026, at Arizona Cardinals training center in Tempe. Syndication: Arizona Republic
All is unclear, but the Cardinals not telling Brissett he is the starter in 2026 could be a sign of a future move involving the 10-year pro. The franchise seem flexibility for next season, especially for who will be taking snaps under center. New head coach Mike LaFleur will have a lot of say in the next couple weeks for the direction he wants to lead in his first year at the QB position.
Gardner Minshew signs with Cardinals to back up starter Jacoby Brissett in 2026
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
