GLENDALE – The Arizona Cardinals have a slight hiccup during their OTAs and offseason workouts, and its the absence of quarterback Jacoby Brissett. The 33-year-old is coming off a career year, and despite going 1-11, he is eyeing a big pay day. In 2026, the second-year Cardinals QB is set to make $1.5 million in guaranteed money. A number that looks worse compared to his backup Gardner Minshew, who is set to make $5.1 in guarantees.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Many fans and experts have come out to give their opinion on the matter, including NBC Sports analyst Chris Simms. On his podcast, “Chris Simms Unbuttoned,” he claimed that Brissett “should hold his dame ground,” when it comes to holding out for a new deal.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) prepares to play the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium on Dec 7, 2025, in Glendale, Ariz. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Simms supports Brissett’s holdout:
Simms claims that team’s record with Brissett as the starter isn’t a reflection of the caliber of play from the 10-year pro. Brissett threw a career high in passing yards (3,366) and touchdowns (23) last season in his 14 game appearances. His insertion into the offense helped unlock many of the franchise’s offensive weapons like Michael Wilson and Trey McBride.
Arizona Cardinals general manager Monti Ossenfort and head coach Mike LaFleur speak during a press conference at the Arizona Cardinals facility in Tempe after the first round of the NFL Draft on April 23, 2026. Syndication: Arizona Republic
With Arizona not projected to win a lot of games next season, giving Brissett his one-year payday seems obvious. However, owner Michael Bidwill has gotten this stigma around him and his operations of being cheap and not paying players. Whether that is true or not, the problem truly lies in whether the organization feel like paying Brissett is a necessity.
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
The Cardinals are bringing in a new offensive system in head coach Mike LaFleur and drafted Carson Beck in the third round. Add Minshew into the mix, and Brissett doesn’t have the leverage he had at the end of last year. While Simms believes that Arizona doesn’t have any other options, that isn’t the case. The team could look to have Minshew start the season, and as the season progresses, the rookie Beck could go under center.
Brissett stepping up in a tough situation in 2025 deserves his more guarantees for 2026. However, the franchise won’t feel pressure to do so if the price gets too rich for their liking.
Jacoby Brissett skips Arizona Cardinals OTAs seeking extension
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
