Quarterback Jacoby Brissett has succeeded in securing a pay raise from the Arizona Cardinals ahead of the 2026 NFL season. Brissett, who was not seeking a new contract but rather a salary adjustment, will now earn $15.5 million in base pay, a substantial increase from his previous $4.88 million. With potential incentives, this new deal could reach up to $21 million.
The decision comes after the release of Kyler Murray, who eventually joined the Minnesota Vikings. Brissett is now positioned to take over starting quarterback duties. While his new compensation is still below typical starter salaries, Brissett is satisfied with the agreed terms.
Despite skipping the Cardinals’ spring workouts, Brissett ensured his presence at training camp, indicating a desire to conclude negotiations quickly. With a change in leadership, Mike LaFleur steps in as head coach following Jonathan Gannon’s exit. Brissett leads the depth chart following Murray’s departure, competing with new draftee Carson Beck and signed competitor Gardner Minshew II.
In the 2025 season, Brissett assumed starting responsibilities after Murray’s foot injury, notably improving the Cardinals’ offensive performance with targets like Trey McBride and Marvin Harrison Jr. His effective play bolstered player statistics and made his contract demands more pressing.
Brissett’s current contract will see him reach free agency after this season. However, another successful year might help keep him in Arizona’s good graces. The Cardinals have strengthened their offense by drafting running back Jeremiyah Love third overall. Brissett has started training camp alongside teammates, including recent additions like Love, although he has not yet joined 11-on-11 sessions. This is expected to change now that his pay increase is finalized.
Despite earning a pay raise, Brissett is not guaranteed the starting position against the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 1. To secure his spot, he must outperform Minshew and Beck. With his existing rapport with top players, winning the role seems within reach. The entire Cardinals team was among the first to report to training camp, marking the new season’s start as the rest of the NFL prepares for veteran arrivals.
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