GLENDALE – As the Jacoby Brissett holdout continues, the Arizona Cardinals could be forced to make the tough decision regarding their quarterback. After setting career marks in passing yards and touchdowns, the 33-year-old is looking for a new deal heading into 2026, which he only has $1.5 million in guaranteed money. A reasonable demand for a QB that the franchise claimed to have told he’ll be the starter back in March, according to ESPN’s Josh Weinfuss.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!However, weeks have passed, and the two sides are still significantly far apart on a deal. With mandatory Minicamp in two weeks, Arizona could make the tough decision to part ways with Brissett if a new a deal isn’t agreed upon.
Nov 16, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) throws the ball in the first half against the San Francisco 49ers at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Why Cardinals would cut Brissett:
Cutting Brissett would make the most sense. Many NFL teams have already figured out their quarterback situation, so any trade involving the 10-year pro wouldn’t garner much value. Leading the franchise to releasing Brissett, which would save them $5.94 million in the salary cap. Plenty of Cardinals players are up for extensions and saving money now could make it easier to pay out those contracts in the future.
Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) takes the field before they play against the Green Bay Packers at State Farm Stadium in Glendale on Oct. 19, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The money is a significant part, but Brissett’s record last season seems to be an indicator that Arizona should go in a different direction. Brissett went 1-11 as a starter, and owner Michael Bidwill claimed the team will not be tanking this season. Regardless of whether that claim will turn out to be true or not, bringing back the starter that won one game last season seems like malpractice.
Especially with that same starter demanding a raise, it would be a tough sell to fans. Cutting him and giving rookie Carson Beck a chance or a former Pro Bowler Garner Minshew seems like the more viable option for the Cardinals instead of paying Brissett.
Cardinals need deep pockets for Paris Johnson’s upcoming extension
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
