Full Breakdown
Jacoby Brissett Reaches New One-Year Deal with Arizona Cardinals
7/27/2026, 8:58:34 AM
Core Event – Contract Agreement Ends Holdout
On July 26, ESPN reporters Adam Schefter and Ian Rapoport reported that the Arizona Cardinals and veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett reached a new agreement after a holdout that began in May. The deal replaces the second-year base salary of $4.88 million with a one-year contract that guarantees $15.5 million and can rise to $21 million with incentives.
Background & Context – 2025 Season and Quarterback Situation
Brissett, 33, joined Arizona in 2025 and assumed the starting role after starter Kyler Murray was released. In 2025 he started 12 of 14 games, posting 3,366 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions, and set an NFL record with 47 completions in a single game. The Cardinals finished 3-14, prompting a coaching change that installed first-year head coach Mike LaFleur. The team also drafted quarterback Carson Beck in the third round of the 2026 draft and signed Gardner Minshew II, creating a three-quarterback competition for training camp.
Data & Statistics – Contract Terms and Performance Metrics
- Previous contract (2025): $4.88 million base salary.
- New contract (2026): $15.5 million guaranteed; up to $21 million with incentives.
- 2025 performance: 3,366 passing yards, 23 TDs, 8 INTs; 47 completions in a single game (NFL record).
- Depth chart: Brissett, Gardner Minshew II, Carson Beck.
All figures are drawn from the ESPN reports cited by Newsweek and CBSSports.
Official Statements & Responses – Team Perspective
Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur said the resolution was “good” and expressed confidence that the agreement arrived “sooner rather than later.” He added that, despite missing most of the offseason program, Brissett’s understanding of the offense is solid and that he is “learning a whole different language.” The organization indicated that Brissett will report to training camp on schedule and will compete for the starting role, with his prior rapport with key receivers such as tight end Trey McBride and wideout Marvin Harrison Jr. viewed as an advantage.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He's a smart dude, he's played a lot of football,” — Mike LaFleur
Timeline
- May 2025: Brissett skips OTAs.
- July 26 2025: Contract agreement announced (ESPN).
- July 28 2025: Veteran arrivals begin; training camp starts the following week.
Why It Matters – Implications for Arizona
The new contract secures Brissett as the presumed starter for 2026 while preserving flexibility to evaluate Beck and Minshew. Financially, the raise represents a substantial increase for a quarterback who will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2026 season, signaling the team’s willingness to invest in stability despite a recent 3-14 record. The deal also removes a lingering contract dispute, allowing the coaching staff to focus on installing its offensive system ahead of a rebuilding campaign.
What’s Next – Upcoming Activities
Veterans across the league are expected to report on July 28, initiating the first round of position battles. The Cardinals will complete preseason preparations in August, with the quarterback competition expected to be resolved before the opening game of the regular season.
