Jacoby Brissett to Start Third Straight Game for Cardinals as Kyler Murray Remains Sidelined

The Arizona Cardinals will keep starting quarterback Kyler Murray sidelined for at least another week, as head coach Jonathan Gannon confirmed that Jacoby Brissett will start Monday night’s nationally televised game against the Dallas Cowboys. The decision marks Brissett’s third consecutive start while Murray continues to recover from a lingering foot injury.

Gannon told reporters Saturday that while Murray has made progress, he remains short of full strength. “He’s getting better,” Gannon said. “He’s had some more work this last week, but he’s just not ready to go yet.” The coach added that the team would continue to monitor Murray’s status over the next 48 hours to determine if he could have a limited role on game day.

The Cardinals have lost five straight games entering Week 9 and are looking to regain footing in a competitive NFC West. With the trade deadline approaching Tuesday, Gannon emphasized that the decision to hold Murray out was entirely health-related and not influenced by external factors.

“I know he wants to be out there,” Gannon said. “He’s doing everything he can. It’s just he’s not quite there yet.” The team continues to evaluate Murray’s recovery timetable but has not considered placing him on injured reserve.

1. Brissett’s Steady Play Gives Arizona Stability

Jacoby Brissett has stepped in with composure and command during his brief stint as starter. Despite Arizona’s consecutive losses under his leadership, the veteran has delivered solid numbers, averaging 299.5 passing yards per game and 7.5 yards per attempt. Over those two starts, he has thrown four touchdowns and only one interception, demonstrating efficiency and poise in the pocket. Brissett’s performances have kept Arizona competitive, with both losses decided by just four points. Still, the 31-year-old quarterback insists that close games aren’t enough. “We’re right there,” Brissett said. “But when you look at the film and see plays in critical situations where we know we can close the gap, that’s what we’re looking forward to doing this week.” He also acknowledged the challenges of the week-to-week uncertainty surrounding Murray’s health but said he has learned to manage it. “It gets a little redundant,” Brissett admitted, “but I try not to let it affect me. My job is to be ready.” Gannon praised Brissett’s veteran presence and decision-making, highlighting his understanding of the offense. “He’s got really good command,” Gannon said. “He knows what we’re trying to accomplish on each play, and he doesn’t get fooled a lot.”

2. Murray’s Future Still Unclear

While Arizona continues to take a cautious approach, questions remain about when Murray will return — and whether his injury could linger into the latter part of the season. Gannon avoided putting a firm timeline on the quarterback’s comeback, emphasizing that every injury recovery is unique. “What does long-term really mean?” Gannon said. “Every player, every injury is kind of unique, and he’s been pushing. We’ve been pushing.” The organization has repeatedly stated that placing Murray on injured reserve is not currently an option, suggesting optimism about his near-term recovery. However, Gannon admitted that “weird things happen” in the days leading up to a game, leaving room for flexibility should Murray’s condition suddenly improve. Internally, the Cardinals view Murray as a key long-term piece of their rebuild. The team has been careful not to rush him back, especially given his recent history of lower-body injuries. While Murray has participated in limited on-field work, Gannon and the medical staff have prioritized ensuring his full mobility before returning him to game action. The team’s conservative approach may frustrate some fans, but the organization appears united in prioritizing Murray’s long-term health over short-term results. As Gannon put it, “We’ll make the decision that’s best for the player and best for the team.”

3. Facing a Tough Challenge on National Stage

Arizona’s upcoming matchup against Dallas represents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Cowboys, one of the NFC’s strongest defensive teams, enter Monday’s game looking to continue their early-season surge. For Brissett, the primetime setting will provide another chance to solidify his role as a dependable leader in Murray’s absence. The Cardinals, meanwhile, are focused on snapping a five-game losing streak that has put pressure on Gannon’s first full season in charge. A win over a playoff-caliber opponent could provide a much-needed confidence boost for a team still finding its rhythm on both sides of the ball. With running back James Conner returning to form and rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. showing promise, Arizona hopes to give Brissett enough support to challenge Dallas’ secondary. The offensive line’s ability to contain the Cowboys’ pass rush, led by Micah Parsons, will likely determine the team’s chances of pulling off an upset. As Murray continues his recovery and Brissett carries the offense forward, the Cardinals are trying to maintain focus and belief. The next few weeks could shape not only their season but also how the franchise manages its star quarterback’s future.