Cardinals, Jacoby Brissett Remain Far Apart in Contract Talks Ahead of Season

The Arizona Cardinals enter the upcoming season facing one of the NFL’s most demanding divisions, with little margin for error in a competitive NFC West that includes the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks along with the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers. In that context, stability at quarterback is especially important as the franchise attempts to climb out of the division basement.

Jacoby Brissett is expected to return as the team’s starter for a second straight season, providing veteran experience under center while Arizona also hopes for a breakthrough year from rookie running back Jeremiyah Love. The pairing is viewed internally as a key part of the Cardinals’ offensive direction heading into the season.

However, Brissett is currently entering the final year of his contract, and discussions between the quarterback and the organization regarding an extension have reportedly not progressed in a meaningful way. The lack of movement has raised questions about both his short-term future and his participation in upcoming team activities.

With voluntary offseason workouts approaching, uncertainty now lingers over whether Brissett will be present as negotiations continue to stall. While no immediate resolution is required, the gap between the two sides has become a growing storyline in Arizona’s offseason preparations.

1. Contract Talks Stall Between Both Sides

According to reports, negotiations between Brissett and the Cardinals remain significantly far apart, with no clear indication that a new deal is close. Both sides have expressed interest in continuing the relationship, but the financial terms have yet to align in a meaningful way. Brissett originally signed a two-year, $12.5 million contract with Arizona, a modest deal by NFL quarterback standards. For the upcoming season, he is scheduled to earn a base salary of $4.88 million with a cap hit of $9.19 million, figures that place him near the lower tier of starting quarterbacks financially. From the team’s perspective, Brissett’s contract reflects both his role and the organization’s broader roster-building strategy. However, quarterbacks with starting responsibilities across the league have continued to see rising market values, widening the gap between Brissett’s current deal and comparable starters. The stalled negotiations now create a degree of uncertainty heading into the offseason program. While neither side has indicated a breakdown in communication, the lack of progress suggests that a resolution may not come quickly.

2. Brissett’s Role in Arizona’s Offensive Plans

Despite the contract situation, Brissett remains a central figure in Arizona’s offensive outlook. The veteran quarterback brings nearly a decade of NFL experience, having played for six different teams throughout his career, including multiple stints as a starter. Last season, Brissett provided steady production for the Cardinals, completing 315 of 485 passes for 3,366 yards while throwing 23 touchdowns against eight interceptions. His performance offered stability at a position that has often been inconsistent for Arizona in recent years. The Cardinals are hoping that continuity at quarterback, combined with the addition of rookie Jeremiyah Love in the backfield, can help elevate the offense. If Love develops into a consistent rushing threat, it could take pressure off Brissett and allow the passing game to become more efficient. That potential offensive balance is part of the reason Arizona has chosen to retain Brissett as its starter heading into the new season. Even without a long-term extension in place, his familiarity with the system remains valuable.

3. Uncertainty Looms Over Future Beyond This Season

While Brissett is expected to lead the offense in the short term, his long-term future with the franchise remains unresolved. Entering the final year of his current deal, he will have an opportunity to either solidify his position in Arizona or test the market as a free agent. The lack of agreement on an extension places added importance on his performance this season. A strong campaign could strengthen his negotiating position, whether with the Cardinals or other interested teams across the league. For Arizona, the situation presents a balancing act between short-term competitiveness and long-term roster planning. The organization must determine whether Brissett remains part of its future or whether it will eventually pivot toward a younger or higher-profile option at quarterback. With voluntary OTAs approaching, attention now turns to whether Brissett participates in offseason activities amid ongoing negotiations. While attendance is not mandatory, his presence would signal continuity during a critical preparation period for the offense.