Jacoby Brissett's Contract Standoff with the Arizona Cardinals

Jacoby Brissett, the Arizona Cardinals' quarterback, is currently absent from the team's voluntary offseason workouts as he seeks a contract extension that reflects his status as a potential starter. After the Cardinals released former franchise quarterback Kyler Murray on March 3, 2026, Brissett, who started 12 games last season, is now positioned as the frontrunner for the starting role. However, he is dissatisfied with his current contract, which includes a base salary of $4.88 million for 2026, of which only $1.5 million is guaranteed.

Jacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Offseason Workouts Seeking Contract ExtensionJacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New ContractQB Jacoby Brissett Makes Decision Amid Cardinals' NFL Offseason ProgramHeavyReutersESPNJacoby Brissett’s risky holdout and a costly Cardinals QB dilemma

Brissett's absence from the offseason program is a strategic move to emphasize his desire for a more secure contract. Reports indicate that he is asking for a deal that compensates him at a starter level, especially given his performance last season, where he threw for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. The Cardinals' general manager, Monti Ossenfort, has acknowledged the team's willingness to address Brissett's contract situation, although no specific timeline has been established for negotiations.

Jacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New ContractJacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Offseason Workouts Seeking Contract ExtensionNBC SportsJacoby Brissett’s risky holdout and a costly Cardinals QB dilemmaReport: Brissett skipping offseason program amid extension requestReutersHeavy

The Cardinals' quarterback room has undergone significant changes, with Gardner Minshew now on the roster, who is set to earn $5.14 million in guaranteed salary for the upcoming season. This disparity in guaranteed money between Minshew and Brissett adds tension to Brissett's negotiations. Additionally, the Cardinals hold the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft and have been linked to Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson, which could further complicate Brissett's standing with the team.

Arizona RepublicJacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New ContractNBC SportsJacoby Brissett’s risky holdout and a costly Cardinals QB dilemmaQB Jacoby Brissett Makes Decision Amid Cardinals' NFL Offseason ProgramCardinals’ Jacoby Brissett holding out of offseason activities for starter moneyHeavy

During a recent predraft news conference, both Ossenfort and head coach Mike LaFleur refrained from naming a starting quarterback, stating that the competition remains open. Ossenfort remarked, "We're not really naming anybody, and we'll see how that room looks by the time we get to August." LaFleur echoed this sentiment, indicating that the focus is currently on installing the new offensive system rather than solidifying the depth chart.

Jacoby Brissett wants to be paid as a starter, per report

Despite Brissett's strong statistical performance last season, some analysts question whether he is deserving of a starter-level contract. Critics point out that his record as a starter has not been favorable, with a 1-11 mark last season. Furthermore, there are concerns about the Cardinals' long-term plans, as they may be looking to draft a young quarterback to lead the franchise moving forward.

Jacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New Contract

As the Cardinals prepare for the NFL Draft, the outcome could significantly impact Brissett's future with the team. If they select a quarterback like Ty Simpson, it may diminish Brissett's leverage in contract negotiations. The upcoming weeks will be crucial as the Cardinals navigate their quarterback situation and Brissett seeks to secure a more favorable contract.

Arizona RepublicJacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New ContractNBC SportsJacoby Brissett’s risky holdout and a costly Cardinals QB dilemmaReutersHeavyCardinals’ Jacoby Brissett holding out of offseason activities for starter money

• “We're not really naming anybody, and we'll see how that room looks by the time we get [to] August,” — Monti Ossenfort, General Manager

ESPN

• “AZ appears willing to address it.” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Network

Heavy

• “Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett is asking for a contract extension “that pays him as the starter,” according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport.” — Ian Rapoport, NFL Network

Jacoby Brissett wants to be paid as a starter, per report

• “1 Overall Recruit Draymond Green Defends LaMelo Ball After Viral Bam Adebayo Tripping Incident The Arizona Cardinals may not have officially named Jacoby Brissett their starting quarterback, but he is widely expected to take that role in Week 1 after the franchise moved on from Kyler Murray following a 3–14 season in 2025.” — Athlon Sports

QB Jacoby Brissett Makes Decision Amid Cardinals' NFL Offseason Program

Brissett's situation remains fluid as he balances his contract demands with the team's evolving quarterback strategy.

Jacoby Brissett Skips Cardinals Workouts Seeking New Contract