A quarterback controversy is developing in Arizona as Jacoby Brissett's relationship with the Cardinals reaches a breaking point.
The tension began when General Manager Monti Ossenfort and head coach Mike LaFleur refused to name a starting quarterback, instead discussing an open competition that includes their newest draft picks.
Brissett expressed his displeasure on Instagram by posting a clip of the front office's indecisiveness, accompanied by laughing emojis, a move that all but confirmed rumors of a potential holdout.
This standoff has now moved from social media to the practice field, as Brissett was officially absent when his team began its first voluntary OTA practice, as noticed by Ian Rapoport on X.
#AZCardinals QB Jacoby Brissett is not present as his team begins its first practice of voluntary OTAs.
The starting QB has been staying away as he seeks a raise for 2026. pic.twitter.com/lGDGRQbG43
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) May 18, 2026
The veteran quarterback is pushing for a contract restructuring for the 2026 season that reflects his value as an NFL starter.
Despite the team’s disappointing 1-11 record in his starts last year, Brissett had individual metrics that were a career best, as he recorded 3,366 passing yards and 23 touchdowns with a 64.9% completion rate after stepping in for Kyler Murray.
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Currently, Brissett is slated to earn $9.06 million, but with only $1.5 million guaranteed, he is seeking a contract that provides more financial security.
As the Cardinals assess their future, Brissett has stayed away from the facility, insisting on a raise that aligns with his production.
The ongoing holdout has significantly accelerated the timeline for rookie Carson Beck, whom Arizona selected 65th overall.
While Gardner Minshew II offers a veteran presence, Beck is increasingly seen as the primary beneficiary of Brissett's absence.
Initially viewed as a long-term developmental project, the Cardinals now find themselves in a position where they must give Beck meaningful practice reps much earlier than anticipated.
If the contract dispute continues throughout the summer, Beck's “inside track” to playing time may evolve into a starting role for the 2026 season.
A quarterback controversy is developing in Arizona as Jacoby Brissett's relationship with the Cardinals reaches a breaking point. The tension began when General Manager Monti Ossenfort and head coach Mike LaFleur refused to name a starting quarterback, instead discussing an open competition that includes their newest draft picks.