The Arizona Cardinals have signed quarterback Gardner Minshew to a one-year contract, confirming him as the backup to Jacoby Brissett for the upcoming NFL season. This move was reported by John Gambadoro of Arizona Sports, with Minshew expected to support Brissett, who started 12 games last year while filling in for Kyler Murray.
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero detailed that the contract is valued at $5.75 million and could increase to $8 million with incentives included. This addition continues to shape the Cardinals’ quarterback lineup under new head coach Mike LaFleur.
Minshew’s NFL Experience and Previous Teams
Gardner Minshew is entering his seventh season in the NFL, most recently spending time with the Kansas City Chiefs. During his tenure there, he appeared in four games, starting once, completing 46.2% of his passes for 37 yards and one interception.
Before joining the Chiefs, Minshew played for multiple teams, including the Las Vegas Raiders in 2024, the Indianapolis Colts in 2023, the Philadelphia Eagles between 2021 and 2022, and the Jacksonville Jaguars from 2019 to 2020. His most notable season was in 2023 with the Colts, where he completed 62.2% of his throws, totaled 3,305 passing yards, and threw 15 touchdowns alongside nine interceptions. That year, he led Indianapolis to a 7-6 record as a starter and earned a Pro Bowl selection.
Quarterback Depth Chart Following Signing
Following Minshew’s signing, the Cardinals’ quarterback roster appears fully stocked. Jacoby Brissett will serve as the primary quarterback, supported by Minshew as the backup. Additionally, Kedon Slovis remains part of the group, rounding out the team’s depth behind center.
This development comes after Kyler Murray’s release, which prompted the Cardinals to conduct a thorough search for quarterback options to guide their offense moving forward.
Breaking news – Gardner Minshew will be the backup to Jacoby Brissett. Brissett will be the Cardinals starting QB for the 2026 season.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) March 9, 2026
Veteran QB Gardner Minshew is signing with the Cardinals on a one-year, $5.75 million deal, per source. He can make up to $8M with incentives. pic.twitter.com/bILqMRRs0C
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) March 9, 2026
