GLENDALE – Carson Beck may not be the Arizona Cardinals’ starting quarterback yet, but Friday’s practice provided an intriguing glimpse into a possibility the organization may eventually have to consider. Beck was spotted working with the first-team offense, throwing to two of Arizona’s most important offensive pieces, Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride. That does not automatically mean Beck is replacing Jacoby Brissett, but the timing is difficult to ignore.
Aug 6, 2026; Canton, Ohio, USA; Arizona quarterback Beck (19) reacts during the game against the Carolina Panthers at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Another day of practice reps for Cardinals rookie QB Carson Beck. pic.twitter.com/vvmsr6qc2T
— Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) September 25, 2026
Brissett’s second game as Arizona’s starter was a major step backward. Against Seattle, he completed 17 of 28 passes for only 95 yards, one touchdown, and one interception as the Cards managed just seven points. That performance naturally created questions among Cardinals fans about when Beck might receive a legitimate opportunity. The important distinction is that practice reps are not the same thing as a quarterback change.
Arizona quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) throws a pass against the Seattle Seahawks during a game at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. on Sept. 20, 2026. Credit: Patrick Breen/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Arizona is only preparing for Week 3, and giving Beck first-team work could simply be part of making sure the rookie is prepared if his number is eventually called. But there is value in getting him repetitions with Harrison Jr. and McBride, the players expected to be a central part of Arizona’s passing attack.
Jul 23, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona quarterback Beck (19) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For Beck, those reps could also be an important development step. The former college star was the Cardinals’ third-round selection and entered the season behind Brissett and Gardner Minshew. Now, he is getting more exposure to the starting offense. That does not mean Beck is starting Sunday, but it does mean the Cardinals are making sure their rookie quarterback is ready if the opportunity arrives. After what happened against Seattle, Cards fans have a reason to pay attention.
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
