Arizona Cardinals Sign QB Gardner Minshew

Minshew joins Jacoby Brissett in transitional year for Cardinals at QB

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals have signed quarterback Gardner Minshew to a one-year, $8.25 million contract. Minshew will serve as a backup to Jacoby Brissett in a transitional year for the Cardinals at the quarterback position, as the team is cutting Kyler Murray and looking to potentially add Jimmy Garoppolo as well.

Why it matters

The Cardinals are undergoing a major shift at quarterback, moving on from Kyler Murray and bringing in Minshew and potentially Garoppolo as they look to rebuild their offense. Minshew's experience as a starter and Pro Bowler in 2023 with the Colts makes him a valuable addition as a backup.

The details

Minshew, 29, spent last season as the backup to Patrick Mahomes with the Chiefs, but suffered a left knee injury in his lone start against the Titans. Prior to that, he had stints with the Jaguars, Eagles, Colts, and Raiders. In his career, Minshew has thrown for nearly 12,000 yards with 68 touchdowns and 35 interceptions.

  • Minshew signed a one-year, $8.25 million contract with the Cardinals on March 9, 2026.

The players

Gardner Minshew

A 29-year-old quarterback who has played for five NFL teams, including a Pro Bowl season with the Colts in 2023.

Jacoby Brissett

The Cardinals' current starting quarterback, who will be joined by Minshew in a transitional year for the team at the position.

Kyler Murray

The Cardinals' previous starting quarterback, who the team is cutting as they undergo a major shift at the position.

Jimmy Garoppolo

A veteran quarterback who the Cardinals are reportedly interested in adding to their quarterback room, though a deal is not guaranteed.

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What they’re saying

“The Cardinals signed Minshew to a one-year deal worth $8.25 million.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN NFL Insider (ESPN)

What’s next

The Cardinals will continue to evaluate their quarterback options, with the potential addition of Jimmy Garoppolo still on the table. The team is also expected to be active in the 2027 NFL Draft, which is shaping up to be a loaded quarterback class.

The takeaway

The Cardinals are undergoing a significant transition at quarterback, moving on from Kyler Murray and bringing in veteran options like Minshew and potentially Garoppolo as they look to rebuild their offense. This sets the stage for the team to potentially target a long-term solution at QB in the 2027 draft.