The Arizona Cardinals have added experienced quarterback Gardner Minshew to their roster, signing him to a one-year contract worth up to $8 million. This move comes shortly after the team released Kyler Murray as part of a major offseason restructuring. The signing was confirmed by ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter on March 9, 2026.
Minshew’s Journey Through the NFL Leading to the Cardinals
Gardner Minshew entered the NFL after being selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the 2019 draft out of Washington State. He made his professional debut that season, stepping in when Nick Foles suffered a clavicle fracture. Minshew took over as the Jaguars’ starting quarterback in a challenging rookie year, completing 3,271 passing yards with 21 touchdowns and finishing with a 6-8 record.
Following the 2019 season, Minshew began 2020 as Jacksonville’s starter after the team traded Foles to the Chicago Bears. However, difficulties mounted as the Jaguars struggled to a 1-7 record, resulting in Minshew being benched. In 2021, he was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles to back up Jalen Hurts, remaining in that role for two seasons.
Recent Seasons Marked by Fluctuations and Injuries
In 2023, Minshew returned to a starting role with the Indianapolis Colts, achieving his best NFL performance to date. He earned Pro Bowl recognition while throwing for 3,305 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, although the Colts narrowly missed the playoffs. The following year, he was traded to the Las Vegas Raiders to start, but inconsistent play led to his benching and eventual release.
Minshew then signed with the Kansas City Chiefs during the 2025 season after Patrick Mahomes suffered a knee injury ending his season. Unfortunately, Minshew’s season also ended prematurely in Week 16 due to a fractured tibia.
Implications and Prospects of the New Cardinals Deal
Gardner Minshew’s signing reflects the Cardinals’ intent to stabilize the quarterback position following the departure of Kyler Murray, who was the team’s first overall pick in the 2019 draft but faced multiple setbacks and injuries throughout his tenure. Bringing in Minshew, known for his resilience and experience as both a starter and backup across several NFL teams, offers Arizona a seasoned option as they rebuild their offense. The impact of this acquisition will depend on Minshew’s ability to stay healthy and manage the pressures of leading a team undergoing significant changes.
Cardinals signing QB Gardner Minshew to one-year, $5.75M deal worth up to $8.25M. (via @tompelissero)
— NFL
Cardinals signing QB Gardner Minshew to one-year, $5.75M deal worth up to $8.25M. (via @tompelissero) pic.twitter.com/RAMdbj28Pt
— NFL (@NFL) March 9, 2026
