GLENDALE – With the final day of mandatory minicamp cancelled, Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur sent a message that the quarterback position isn’t finalized. With the 40-day break before training camp coming up, LaFleur was asked about starting QB job, which he bluntly stated his lack of concern on the subject. He switched the conversation about how the break will be crucial for the team’s success about how each player will handle themselves.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!LaFleur wants everyone, not just quarterbacks, to not take step backs during this time away from the team.
Coach Mike LaFleur speaks to the media after minicamp practice at the Arizona Cardinals training facility on June 9, 2026, in Tempe. Syndication: Arizona Republic
LaFleur on QB competition:
For last year’s starter Jacoby Brissett it’ll be easy to stay away from the team with how the contract negotiations have gone. In March, Arizona told the 10-year pro he’ll be the starter in 2026. Given that leverage, Brissett decided he’ll use it to get a raise from his $1.5 million salary next season. After setting career marks in touchdowns and yards, the demand makes sense. However, it’s been three months and two sides still remain relatively far a part.
The stalemate has made LaFleur’s job harder, as he can’t accurately judge the quarterback room without one of his guys. His response on Wednesday is likely fueled by the frustration of this situation, just hoping by training camp a new contract is inked or Brissett is traded.
Jun 9, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals Jacoby Brissett (7) during minicamp at Arizona Cardinals Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
If a new deal is reached, Brissett will no doubt be the starter. But, in possible scenario of that not happening, LaFleur will have to choose between a Pro Bowler in Gardner Minshew or rookie Carson Beck. The choice will obviously be Minshew, as even LaFleur called rookies “difficult” earlier this offseason. Given the franchise’s tough schedule to begin 2026, throwing a veteran against the wolves of the LA Rams, LA Chargers, Seattle Seahawks and more is a way to preserve the rookie’s confidence.
Beck could find his way into the starting job during the second half of the year, which is much more home centric and against lower-tier opponents. Finding out if the third-round pick has any worth before heading into the 2027 draft is crucial. The Cardinals will need to know if their in the quarterback market before the draft and throwing Beck out there is the best way to find out.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
