The Arizona Cardinals have been looking to take that next step as a team with a brand new start at the quarterback position. After the team has officially decided to move on from Kyler Murray, the question became who will be the team’s next starter. While Jacoby Brissett is the incumbent, it appears the team wants to give him some competition with an experienced quarterback. Let’s take a closer look at who they signed to compete for the starting job.
The Arizona Cardinals sign Gardner Minshew II to a one-year contract
Gardner Minshew, Arizona Cardinals
Aug 9, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Gardner Minshew (17) runs for a touchdown against the Arizona Cardinals during the first half at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero is reporting that the Arizona Cardinals have agreed to a one-year, $5.25 million contract with former Pro Bowl quarterback Gardner Minshew II. The deal can go to $8 million, depending on incentives in the contract. Minshew II is going to be competing with Jacoby Brissett for the starting quarterback position with the Arizona Cardinals.
Minshew II has done well throughout his career as he has completed 1100 of 1742 (64.1%) of his passes for 11,987 yards with 68 passing touchdowns to 35 interceptions. He would get the start after Patrick Mahomes suffered his torn ACL injury, but in the third play of his start, he would go down with a non-contact knee injury. However, Minshew II would only suffer a bone bruise and not require surgery to heal, being ready to play as soon as training camp begins.
Minshew II was able to make the Pro Bowl in 2023 with the Indianapolis Colts, but has failed to find the ability to find that consistent dominance. It will be intriguing to see which quarterback is able to win the quarterback competition and get the Week 1 start. This isn’t the only addition the team has made today, either.