GLENDALE — The Arizona Cardinals continue to get depleted, as head coach Mike LaFleur’s quarterback situation could take another hit following Gardner Minshew’s latest injury concern.
Mike LaFleur said Gardner Minshew is undergoing tests on an injury to his throwing arm and that there’s a possibility he could miss this week’s game
— Theo Mackie (@theo_mackie) November 9, 2026
According to Arizona Central’s Theo Mackie, the veteran quarterback is dealing with an issue with his throwing arm, potentially opening the door for rookie Carson Beck to make his NFL debut against the Los Angeles Rams this Sunday.
Minshew made his team debut against the Dallas Cowboys after former Arizona starter Jacoby Brissett was benched. Coming off the bench in the third quarter, Minshew threw for 188 yards and three touchdowns, leading the Arizona to a 33-30 overtime comeback win. His performance prompted LaFleur to name him the starting quarterback moving forward, while Beck was promoted to the QB2 spot and Brissett moved into the emergency third-quarterback role.
Oct 18, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck (19) warms up prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Now, with Minshew potentially dealing with an injury, Beck could be in line for an even bigger opportunity against the Rams this week.
The rookie has yet to play a regular-season snap, but he made an impressive first appearance during the club’s Hall of Fame preseason game against the Carolina Panthers. Beck completed 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown, showing promise in his first NFL action.
Jul 23, 2026; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck (19) during training camp at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
LaFleur has not indicated that Beck will take over as the starter this upcoming week and has not ruled out Minshew. Arizona is already reeling from losing one of its top wide receivers, Michael Wilson, who will be out for the season with a neck injury.
However, if further testing reveals an injury that forces Minshew to miss the game, fans could see Beck make his regular-season debut much sooner than expected.
Oct 11, 2026; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Beck (19) against the Detroit Lions at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Cardinals WR Michael Wilson ruled out for the season with neck injury
