Full Breakdown
Cardinals Quarterback Practices Amid Contract Talks; Panthers Lose Top Pass Rusher to ACL Tear
7/24/2026, 8:55:01 PM
Core Developments at Training Camp
- Arizona Cardinals – Veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett reported to the first day of camp and participated in drills despite the team and his representatives still negotiating a new contract. The Cardinals have not formally named a starter, and the situation adds uncertainty to the quarterback depth chart that also includes Gardner Minshew II and rookie Carson Beck.
- Carolina Panthers – Outside linebacker Nic Scourton was carted off the practice field on the opening day of camp after sustaining a torn right-ACL. The injury is classified as season-ending, and the Panthers will place him on injured reserve.
Background & Context
- The Cardinals entered the offseason after a 3-14 season that led to the dismissal of head coach Jonathan Gannon and the hiring of Mike LaFleur. In March, the franchise released former starter Kyler Murray and began the year without Brissett in the voluntary offseason program while a reworked contract was discussed.
- The Panthers arrived at camp as the defending NFC South champions. Nic Scourton, a 2025 second-round pick from Texas A&M, posted a strong rookie campaign (47 tackles, five sacks, nine quarterback hits) and was slated to partner with newly signed free-agent edge rusher Jaelan Phillips to anchor the pass rush.
Official Statements & Responses
- Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur said the contract discussion with Brissett is “productive” and confirmed that the quarterback will practice on “Practice 1.” He declined to label Brissett the starter, noting the team will evaluate all options during camp.
- Panthers general manager Dan Morgan expressed disappointment, calling the loss of Scourton “a huge blow” for a defense that counted on him as a top pass-rusher.
- Head coach Dave Canales highlighted the team’s unity, noting that players gathered around Scourton as he was taken off the field and that the incident reinforced the “special bond” among the roster.
Data & Statistics
- Jacoby Brissett – Base salary for 2026 is $4.88 million, with $1.5 million guaranteed; incentives could raise total earnings to $5.39 million.
- Nic Scourton – In his rookie season he recorded 47 tackles, 5 sacks, and 9 quarterback hits across 17 games (8 starts).
On-the-Ground Reports
- According to an AP source, Scourton was injured during a block in team drills on a wet field. Teammates and coaches surrounded him as he was placed on a cart, and each player individually walked over to hug him before he was taken to the training room.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'd describe it as Practice 1 on July 23,” — Mike LaFleur, new cardinals coach
- “It’s been really cool to see him come into his own,” — Bryce Young
