Arizona Cardinals quarterback Jacoby Brissett has opted to skip the team's voluntary offseason program as he seeks a new contract. Brissett, who is due to be the Cardinals' starting quarterback following the departure of Kyler Murray, is looking for an extension that aligns with a starter's pay. This decision underscores the financial leverage players often seek when their roles within a team expand, especially after demonstrating their capabilities on the field.
Brissett's current contract has only a meager $1.5 million guaranteed for its final year. This figure, significantly low for a projected starting quarterback, is the primary driver behind his absence from voluntary activities. The NFL Network has highlighted that his non-attendance is a direct strategy to push for a more equitable agreement. Given that Kyler Murray, the former number one overall pick, was released and subsequently signed with the Minnesota Vikings, Brissett's promotion to the starting role became evident.
The quarterback landscape for the Cardinals is currently in flux, with Gardner Minshew II and Kedon Slovis also on the roster. The team is also widely expected to bolster its quarterback depth in the upcoming NFL draft. Brissett, now 33, filled in admirably last season when Murray was out, delivering a strong performance with 3,366 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and only eight interceptions across 14 games, 12 of which he started. His experience and performance provide a strong foundation for his current contract demands.
Despite Brissett's individual efforts, the 2025 season saw the Cardinals struggle, finishing with a 3-14 record in the highly competitive NFC West. This led to the dismissal of head coach Jonathan Gannon after three seasons. Brissett's extensive career includes stints with the Patriots, Colts, Dolphins, Browns, and Commanders, accumulating 14,766 passing yards, 76 touchdowns, and 32 interceptions. He also holds a Super Bowl ring from his time with New England, adding to his credentials as a seasoned veteran.
The situation between Jacoby Brissett and the Arizona Cardinals represents a common scenario in professional sports where a player's increasing value and on-field contributions lead to demands for a revised contract. Brissett's decision to forego voluntary workouts is a clear signal of his determination to secure a deal that reflects his new status as a starting quarterback and his proven performance in the league.
