Cardinals Sign Gardner Minshew to 1-Year, $8.25M Deal

The Arizona Cardinals have agreed to a one-year contract with quarterback Gardner Minshew, valued at up to $8.25 million, according to Adam Schefter. The signing positions Minshew as a potential high-end backup for the team during the upcoming season.

Background and Recent Career Moves of Minshew

Minshew, 29, was selected in the sixth round of the 2019 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars after playing college football at Washington State. His rookie contract lasted four years and was worth $2.7 million. After being traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2021 preseason, he later spent time with the Indianapolis Colts and signed a two-year, $25 million deal with the Las Vegas Raiders in March 2022, aiming to compete for the starting quarterback role.

The Raiders released Minshew in March 2025, after which he joined the Kansas City Chiefs, serving as a backup and appearing in four games during the 2025 season. He completed six of 13 passes for 37 yards but threw one interception. Despite a scare last year, Minshew avoided a torn ACL and remains fully healthy heading into 2026.

Quarterback Options and Team Strategy in Arizona

The Cardinals’ decision to sign Minshew follows earlier links to quarterbacks Malik Willis and Jimmy Garoppolo. Willis has since signed with the Miami Dolphins, while Garoppolo’s status remains uncertain. Veteran Jacoby Brissett, also under contract through 2026, has been involved in trade discussions with teams like the New York Jets. This context suggests that Arizona values depth and experience in their quarterback roster heading into the new season.

Implications of the Signing for the Cardinals’ Future

Bringing in Gardner Minshew under a one-year deal signals the Cardinals’ cautious approach to their quarterback lineup as they prepare for the 2026 season. Minshew’s experience with multiple teams, including the Jaguars, Eagles, Colts, Raiders, and Chiefs, provides a reliable backup option behind Arizona’s starter. This move could influence potential trade negotiations involving Jacoby Brissett and shape the Cardinals’ quarterback stability during the offseason and beyond.