With Kyler Murray’s status in question and Jacoby Brissett slated for a contract year, Arizona must explore options to stabilize the position. First-year coach Mike LaFleur and GM Monti Ossenfort will weigh free agency and trades for a signal-caller who can grow with the team, though a true alpha quarterback via free agency or the draft isn’t readily available this year.
In free agency, Malik Willis stands out as a high-upside option thanks to his dual-threat ability and younger age, following productive relief stints with Green Bay. Kirk Cousins remains a veteran option, but his recent form and advancing age position him as a short-term stopgap rather than a long-term fix. Tanner McKee could be considered in a trade, though his limited NFL experience may deter a rapid solution.
The 2026 draft complicates Arizona’s path, owning the No. 3 overall pick yet likely missing out on the top quarterback prospect, Fernando Mendoza. The class’ overall weakness at the position means Arizona may need to look toward Day 2 options like Alabama’s Ty Simpson or LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, while tempering expectations about a franchise-changing pick.
Overall, Arizona’s quarterback conundrum remains the top offseason priority, with no obvious, immediate fix. The Cardinals will need to balance short-term stability with long-term upside as they navigate free agency, potential trades, and a limited draft landscape to rebuild around a new signal-caller.
