Brissett Reaches New Deal With Cardinals, Set to Start Week 1

Quarterback Jacoby Brissett finalized a restructured one-year agreement with the Arizona Cardinals on Sunday, resolving contract negotiations that had created uncertainty heading into the preseason. The deal, worth $15.5 million, significantly improves upon the veteran’s previous arrangement, which guaranteed him only $1.5 million for the 2024 season.

First-year Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur announced that Brissett, 33, will likely occupy the starting quarterback role in Week 1, ending speculation about the team’s offensive leadership. LaFleur expressed relief that the contract matter had been settled before practice, allowing the organization to move forward without further distraction.

Brissett took over as the team’s primary starter last season following an injury to Kyler Murray and completed 12 games with solid individual statistics: 3,366 passing yards, 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. However, the Cardinals posted a dismal 1-11 record during that stretch, limiting the positive impact of his personal performance.

Support for Brissett’s contract improvement came from several teammates, including eight-time Pro Bowl safety Budda Baker, whose public backing reflected strong relationships within the locker room. LaFleur downplayed concerns about practice time lost during negotiations, citing Brissett’s experience across multiple offensive systems and his composure in challenging situations.

The Cardinals will open their preseason schedule Aug. 6 against the Carolina Panthers in the Hall of Fame game in Canton, Ohio. Gardner Minshew and rookie Carson Beck represent the team’s other quarterback options.