Mike LaFleur Confident as Jacoby Brissett Holds Out of Cardinals OTAs

The Arizona Cardinals are navigating a notable offseason storyline centered on veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who has been absent from organized team activities. His continued absence extends beyond a single session, as he has also missed earlier voluntary workouts during the spring program.

At the heart of the situation is a contract dispute that has yet to be resolved. Brissett, who is set to earn a $4.8 million base salary in 2026, is reportedly seeking a significant raise that better reflects his role as the team’s projected starting quarterback.

The disagreement has created uncertainty around when the 33-year-old will rejoin the team. While the Cardinals view him as their primary option under center, the financial gap between both sides remains unresolved entering the next phase of the offseason.

Despite the ongoing standoff, first-year head coach Mike LaFleur has downplayed concerns about Brissett’s absence, expressing confidence in the veteran’s ability to stay prepared independently.

1. LaFleur Downplays On-Field Concerns

LaFleur addressed Brissett’s situation with a calm and measured tone, suggesting that the quarterback’s absence from OTAs does not significantly hinder his preparation. He pointed out that Brissett has already completed much of the physical installation work required in the system. According to LaFleur, the majority of the current offseason focus revolves around mental preparation, including terminology, cadence, and communication rather than physical reps on the field. He emphasized that these elements can still be learned and reinforced away from team facilities. The head coach also noted that Brissett’s extensive NFL experience gives him an advantage in adapting quickly once he fully re-engages with the offense. Having played in multiple systems throughout his career, Brissett is familiar with quickly absorbing new schemes. LaFleur’s comments reflect a broader coaching perspective that veteran quarterbacks are often capable of maintaining readiness even when missing portions of voluntary offseason work.

2. Contract Dispute Drives Offseason Uncertainty

Brissett’s absence stems from an unresolved financial disagreement with the organization as he enters what he views as a key stage of his career. While his current salary places him below many starting quarterbacks across the league, he believes his role warrants a revised deal. The quarterback’s 2025 season helped strengthen his case statistically, as he threw for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and eight interceptions while completing nearly 65 percent of his passes. That performance reinforced his value as a capable starter rather than a short-term placeholder. From Arizona’s perspective, however, roster-building decisions must balance production with broader salary cap structure. That dynamic has contributed to the ongoing stalemate between player and team. Until a resolution is reached, Brissett’s participation in offseason activities remains uncertain, leaving both sides in a waiting period as training camp approaches.

3. Timing and Chemistry Still Key for Cardinals

While LaFleur remains confident in Brissett’s individual preparation, there is still a clear acknowledgment that time on the field with teammates is important for overall offensive cohesion. Chemistry between a quarterback and new system is typically built through repeated in-person reps. The Cardinals are in a transitional phase offensively, and establishing rhythm with the starting quarterback is considered a priority ahead of the regular season. Even experienced passers benefit from early work with receivers, linemen, and coaching staff. Brissett’s absence means those early opportunities for synchronization have not yet occurred, which could slightly delay offensive timing once he returns. However, the coaching staff appears comfortable managing that adjustment if needed. For now, the organization continues to proceed with its offseason program while waiting for clarity on when its starting quarterback will rejoin the team.