GLENDALE – In a bit of a shock, the Arizona Cardinals announce the starter for Thursday’s Hall of Fame game vs. the Carolina Panthers to be rookie quarterback Carson Beck. Many believed that the honor of starting the first preseason game would go to the veterans of Gardner Minshew or Jacoby Brissett. But given Brissett’s contract debacle delaying his arrival for head coach Mike LaFleur, the first-year head coach gives the start to Beck for a massive opportunity to prove himself.
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May 8, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck (19) during rookie minicamp at Dignity Health Arizona Cardinals Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Team announce Beck to start:
Given the team’s expectations for 2026 and how talented the 2027 NFL quarterback draft class is, many view the Cardinals current QB situation as temporary. Brissett and Minshew are only on one year deals, with Beck coming in only has a third-round flyer. The front office clearly seems locked in on drafting their next franchise quarterback in next year’s first round. However, last year’s Heisman finalist seems ready for the challenge.
Jan 17, 2026; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Miami Hurricanes quarterback Carson Beck (11) talks to the media during media day for the 2025 College Football Playoff National Championship at Miami Beach Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
During the summer, Beck has made it clear that coming from systems like Miami and Georgia has made him ready to be a pro. The 23-year-old has stated he’s already putting 13-hour days in the practice facility, understanding the uphill battle he is already in. The work seems to be recognize by the coaching staff, who gives him the honor of starting on the national televised game.
Arizona Cardinals rookie quarterback Carson Beck during a press conference on May 7, 2026, at the Arizona Cardinals training facility in Tempe. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The start doesn’t guarantee anything, as Minshew and Brissett might not even put on pads for Thursday’s game, given their veteran status. Another week for Brissett to learn the offense and get reps could lead the 33-year-old to starting the Aug. 13th game vs. the Las Vegas Raiders. The 10-year pro’s $15.5 million guaranteed salary for the 2026 season means he’ll be the starter.
Beck’s performance is less likely about his chance to start this season and more to show the franchise what the future holds with him in a Cardinals uniform. He is the only QB under contract for next season. Can Beck make general manager Monti Ossenfort and owner Michael Bidwill hesitant to penciling in a quarterback for next year’s first round? Only he has the power to stop, and his first start carries a lot of weight compared to other rookies in his class.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
