Brissett’s potential elevation to the starting role followed the decision to release Kyler Murray. Since then, Brissett has expressed that he is seeking a reworked contract that better reflects his role as the presumed starter. While no finalized agreement has surfaced, there appears to be positive momentum behind the scenes, suggesting the two sides are exploring a path forward that could formalize Brissett’s position and provide financial terms aligned with his responsibilities on the field.
Brissett’s presence and leadership have not gone unnoticed by teammates. Recent reporting highlighted that several of Arizona’s offensive playmakers traveled to South Florida to train with Brissett, signaling strong on-field rapport and a collective buy-in to his potential as the signal-caller. Among the players seen working with him were Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride, two members of the Cardinals’ skill-position group who value the opportunity to develop chemistry with the quarterback during the offseason.
Brissett did participate in the team’s mandatory minicamp, marking his return to competitive work after a period of optional attendance. His return was described by observers as a move to avoid fines, yet it also underscored his continued commitment to integrating with the offense ahead of training camp. The conversations around his contract centered on guaranteeing more money, with reports indicating a desire to increase his guaranteed compensation beyond the previously established figure of around $1.5 million.
Entering his 11th NFL season in 2026, Brissett brings a wealth of experience from stints with multiple teams and a notable amount of on-field playing time last year after Kyler Murray’s injury. In 2025, Brissett started 12 games and threw for 3,366 yards with 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. The team’s win-loss record in those starts was challenging, illustrating the broader context in which Brissett operates: a franchise in a transitional phase trying to build a competitive, sustainable offense even as it searches for a long-term quarterback solution.
The visible support from key players can be interpreted in several ways. First, it signals confidence in Brissett’s ability to run the offense and mentor younger players as the team charts a path forward. Second, it could put additional pressure on the Cardinals’ brass to reach a contract agreement that reflects Brissett’s role and the value he provides during this period of transition. Public demonstrations of faith from teammates can influence internal discussions and accelerate negotiations, although they do not guarantee a quick resolution.
From a strategic standpoint, the Cardinals face a delicate balancing act. They must weigh short-term performance with longer-term planning for a franchise that has eyes on sustained competitiveness while it continues to evaluate options at quarterback. Analysts and fans alike have expressed skepticism about the Cardinals’ ceiling in 2026, particularly if internal uncertainty at the most important position remains unresolved. Yet Brissett’s leadership and the willingness of his teammates to rally around him offer a glimmer of continuity that can help stabilize the offense during a time of organizational change.
Ultimately, the outcome of Brissett’s contract discussions will influence not only his own future but the overall trajectory of the Cardinals’ offense for the upcoming season. If negotiations yield a deal that reflects his responsibilities and the value he brings as a veteran quarterback, it could provide a solid foundation as the franchise continues to rebuild around a young nucleus and looks to identify a long-term solution at quarterback. Until then, Brissett remains the focal point of questions about Arizona’s offense, and the team will need to balance immediate performance with strategic foresight as it navigates this transitional phase.
