Cardinals sideline Beck for Raiders clash over precautionary rib injury
The decision prevents a highly anticipated matchup between Beck and Las Vegas counterpart Fernando Mendoza, following their national championship duel last season.
Arizona Cardinals rookie quarterback Carson Beck has been ruled out of Thursday night’s preseason match against the Las Vegas Raiders, the team confirmed on Wednesday. The decision follows a rib injury sustained during last Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game, with management opting to keep Beck on the sidelines as a precautionary measure.
According to a source speaking to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the injury is not considered serious. Beck had practiced through soreness throughout the week, but the Cardinals determined that additional time away from contact would facilitate a more complete recovery before the regular season begins.
The absence of Beck significantly alters the narrative of the upcoming fixture, derailing a potential rematch against Raiders rookie quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Mendoza, selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2026 draft, faced Beck in last season’s College Football Playoff National Championship, where his Indiana Hoosiers defeated Beck’s Miami Hurricanes in a closely contested final.
Beck’s debut in the 33-30 loss to the Carolina Panthers was marked by efficiency, as he completed 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and a touchdown. The third-round pick finished with a quarterback rating of 125.4, demonstrating the potential that drew the Cardinals to him during the draft.
With Beck sidelined, the Cardinals will turn to Jacoby Brissett to start the game. On the other side of the ball, Kirk Cousins is expected to start for the Raiders, shifting the focus away from the rookie quarterback duel that had been anticipated.
The exact timeline for Beck’s return to play has not been specified. The team’s priority remains ensuring the rookie is fully healed, prioritising long-term availability over short-term preseason participation.
