Full Breakdown
Jacoby Brissett Returns to Cardinals Training Camp as Contract Talks Continue
7/24/2026, 11:58:57 AM
Core Event – First Practice Amid Unsettled Deal
On July 23, 2026, veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett took part in the Arizona Cardinals’ opening training-camp practice at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. The appearance came despite the team and player still negotiating a new contract for the 2026 season. Brissett ran drills with fellow quarterbacks Gardner Minshew, Carson Beck and Kedon Slovis, completing his first reps of the offseason.
Background & Context
Brissett entered the 2025 season as the de facto starter after Kyler Murray’s injury, starting the final 12 games and posting 3,366 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The Cardinals finished 1-11 in those starts and 3-14 overall, landing last in the NFC West. He is currently in the final year of a two-year, $12.5 million contract that guarantees only $1.5 million. Because his deal ranks among the league’s lowest for a starting quarterback, Brissett has sought a raise that would bring his guaranteed earnings in line with other starters.
First-year head coach Mike LaFleur was hired to evaluate the quarterback situation and establish a new offensive identity. The offseason program saw Brissett skip voluntary workouts and sit out most of mandatory minicamp, citing the contract dispute. His return to the field on the first day of camp signals that negotiations may be nearing resolution.
Data & Statistics
- Current contract: $12.5 million over two years; $1.5 million guaranteed.
- Proposed 2026 base salary (per LaFleur): $4.88 million, with $1.5 million guaranteed and potential incentives up to $5.39 million.
- 2025 performance: 3,366 passing yards, 23 TDs, 8 INTs; 64.9 % completion rate; ranked first in NFL completions and tied for third in passing touchdowns over the final nine weeks.
- Quarterback depth chart: Gardner Minshew (veteran), Carson Beck (rookie third-round pick), Kedon Slovis (additional depth).
- Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list players: left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., edge rusher Josh Sweat, cornerback Garrett Williams, tight end Tip Reiman.
Official Statements & Responses
Coach LaFleur confirmed that Brissett is under contract and that talks remain “productive” but unresolved.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources agree that Brissett’s base salary for 2026 would be $4.88 million, but the exact total value of any new agreement remains undisclosed. One insider tweet suggested Brissett might accept “$15 million for the season,” yet no official figure has been confirmed, leaving the final terms of the deal uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He's under contract and it's the first day of practice.” — Mike LaFleur, like first-year coach
- “It's been productive between us and his team, so still ongoing but I'd say we're productive,” — Mike LaFleur, like first-year coach
- “So, not really worried about that stuff right now,” — Mike LaFleur, like first-year coach
- “I’d describe it as practice one on July 23,” — Mike LaFleur, like first-year coach
- “I definitely think Jacoby did a great job coming in last year,” — Safety Budda Baker, cardinals veteran
