The Arizona Cardinals are facing an uncertain future at the quarterback position in 2026, with former starter Kyler Murray gone and a handful of potential replacements in the mix. The team's plans for the upcoming season remain cloudy, but some key decisions are on the horizon. One name is already emerging as a potential leader in the quarterback room: Jacoby Brissett.
Jacoby Brissett’s Role Amidst Uncertainty
With Kyler Murray’s release, the Cardinals cleared the deck for a new quarterback in 2026. Jacoby Brissett is poised to continue as a pivotal figure in the team's plans. Brissett, who has been with the Cardinals for a few seasons, brings a steady presence and valuable experience to the field, making him a strong contender to start the 2026 season.
There is no shortage of speculation surrounding the Cardinals' quarterback situation. Ty Simpson, a standout from the 2026 NFL draft, is also being heavily considered. Simpson has shown impressive potential, and his connection to the Cardinals is growing stronger as the draft approaches.
Gardner Minshew’s Addition to the Mix
The Cardinals recently agreed to a one-year deal with Gardner Minshew, adding another viable starting option to the roster. Minshew’s addition gives the team more depth and flexibility, especially if injuries or performance issues arise with Brissett or Simpson. Minshew, known for his resilient and gritty playing style, could be a solid backup or even a temporary starter, depending on how the season unfolds.
Despite the additions and potential, the Cardinals' quarterback situation remains fluid. General Manager Monti Ossenfort has hinted that the team is open to various possibilities, including leaving the door open for Simpson to be the Week 1 starter. Ossenfort’s comments suggest that the Cardinals are not rushing to name a starter, preferring to evaluate their options over the next few months.
Draft Speculations and Future Plans
The Cardinals are already drawing comparisons to top quarterback prospects from the 2026 NFL draft. This includes connections to Alabama standout QB and North Dakota QB, further complicating the team’s immediate plans. With the draft approaching, these prospects could significantly influence the Cardinals' quarterback strategy, adding more layers to an already complex situation.
Despite the uncertainty, the team seems to have a clear focus on developing a robust quarterback room. The addition of Minshew, combined with the potential of Simpson and the experience of Brissett, positions the Cardinals to navigate the 2026 season with multiple options at the quarterback position. The next few months will be crucial as the team finalizes its plans and prepares for the upcoming challenges.
“We're not really naming anybody as the starter just yet. It's important to evaluate all our options and see who fits best with our team dynamics and game plan.” —Monti Ossenfort, Arizona Cardinals General Manager
The off-season buzz around the Cardinals' quarterback situation is palpable. Between Brissett’s steady play, Simpson’s potential, and Minshew’s resiliency, the team has a diverse and talented group of options to work with. But as the upcoming season nears, the real test will be in how the Cardinals adapt and strategize with their quarterback to lead the team forward. The Cardinals' path to a new starting signal-caller in 2026 is a story of potential and uncertainty, with every move and decision shaping the future of the team. One thing is sure: the Cardinals must finalize their quarterback plans before the season begins to avoid any last-minute chaos—especially with the draft on the horizon.
