Cardinals’ Brissett ends hold-in as training camp begins amid stalled contract talks

Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett has ended his offseason hold-in to participate in the first day of training camp, according to confirmation from head coach Mike LaFleur. The veteran’s return to the facility on July 23 concludes a period of absence that saw him sit out most of the offseason program and attend mandatory minicamp as a non-participant. LaFleur described the situation as "Practice 1," noting that contract extension discussions with Brissett’s representatives remain "ongoing" and "productive," though no new agreement has been reached.

Brissett is currently in the second year of a two-year, $12.5 million contract. This deal places him at the 32nd-largest average annual value for a quarterback in the league, a figure that ranks behind multiple backups. The quarterback is seeking an extension that reflects his status as the de facto starter following the release of Kyler Murray and the decision not to sign a free-agent replacement. His performance during the 2025 season, where he started 12 games after Murray suffered a severe mid-foot sprain, has strengthened his position in these negotiations.

Despite Brissett’s incumbency, LaFleur declined to officially name him the team’s starter. The coach left open the possibility of an open competition, citing the presence of journeyman backup Gardner Minshew, who holds 47 career starts, and rookie third-round pick Carson Beck. The Cardinals made a notable investment in Beck during the draft, and the franchise’s projected position outside the playoff hunt provides them with the latitude to evaluate whether the rookie can serve as a long-term building block for the future.

Brissett’s statistical output during the final nine weeks of the 2025 regular season offers a strong case for his value. He ranked first in the NFL in completions, tied for third in passing touchdowns, and third in total passing yards. Although his record as a starter was 1-11, that outcome was largely attributed to defensive struggles rather than individual performance, suggesting his on-field production warrants a higher valuation than his current contract provides.

The Cardinals’ approach to the quarterback position balances immediate competitiveness with future planning. While Brissett likely gives the team the best chance to avoid one of the league’s worst records, the organization retains the flexibility to test Beck’s potential. The upcoming training camp will serve as a critical period for determining the starting role, even as financial negotiations continue in the background.