Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has received a significant pay raise from the Arizona Cardinals. Originally set to earn $4.88 million as his base salary in the 2026 NFL season, Brissett’s new deal increases his base pay to $15.5 million. Reports suggest that with incentives, his contract could reach up to $21 million.
Brissett’s situation differs from most hold-ins or hold-outs as he wasn’t seeking a contract extension but rather a fair salary adjustment. His efforts have paid off, especially following the release of Kyler Murray, who later joined the Minnesota Vikings. With Murray gone, Brissett is poised to step in as the starting quarterback, motivating his request for appropriate compensation.
This pay adjustment is not near the top tier quarterback earnings, but Brissett appears satisfied with the agreement. He chose to skip the Cardinals’ spring workouts but joined the training camp on schedule, signaling a potential resolution was near.
The Cardinals have experienced another shift in leadership with Mike LaFleur taking over as head coach after the firing of Jonathan Gannon. Arizona has also introduced competition for Brissett by drafting quarterback Carson Beck from Miami and signing Gardner Minshew II.
During the 2025 season, Brissett stepped into the starting role due to Murray’s foot injury. His performance improved team efficiency, with players like tight end Trey McBride and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. benefiting statistically.
As Brissett approaches free agency, he hopes a continued strong performance will maintain his favorable standing with the Cardinals. The team’s offense has been bolstered by the addition of Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love, who was drafted third overall.
Brissett has been actively involved in training camp activities with new teammates, including Love, though he has yet to participate in full 11-on-11 practice sessions. With the financial terms settled, this is expected to change soon.
Despite the pay raise, Brissett isn’t guaranteed the starting spot for the opening game against the Los Angeles Chargers. He will need to compete with Minshew and Beck, although his familiarity with the team’s primary pass options could give him an edge.
The Arizona Cardinals, along with the Carolina Panthers, were among the first teams to begin training camp, marking the start of new season preparations. As the NFL season approaches, competition for starting positions heats up across the league.
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