Contract disputes often create distance between players and their teammates, especially when a starting quarterback is involved. That does not appear to be the case with Arizona Cardinals presumed starting quarterback Jacoby Brissett. While negotiations over a new deal continue, Brissett is still putting in work with the players who will be counting on him once the regular season begins.
Brissett Works Out With Team Despite Contract Dispute
On Thursday, Brissett shared a photo to his Instagram Stories showing him working out in South Florida with several Cardinals teammates, including Marvin Harrison Jr., Trey McBride, Elijah Higgins, Simi Fehoko, and fellow quarterback Kedon Slovis. He captioned the post, “Great week w/ the guys!”
Looks like a good portion of the Cardinals’ offense got together for a workout. Jacoby Brissett posted, “Great week with the guys.”
It’s almost time to shock the world 💪 pic.twitter.com/kbz2EdBj88
— 🌵 Mr. Az (@MrAzSports) July 9, 2026
Brissett is Putting His Team First
Whether it helps contract negotiations get one step closer to the goal isn’t the point; the photo does highlight some things about how Brissett plans to operate. Instead of letting business talks spill over into a distraction, he is using the time now to build some chemistry within the offense. If he’s truly the guy they expect him to be in 2026, those throwing sessions can be just as beneficial as anything he’ll accomplish in OTAs.
There’s also a statement to be made in the timing of these events.
Brissett missed voluntary workouts while pushing for a new deal, but still showed up to mandatory mini-camp. Now, he is going out of his way to organize workouts with his teammates on his own time. It creates a healthy balance so that he’s not losing ground in the negotiation room, while also not making it seem like he’s completely checked out.
Could Gardner Minshew End up Getting the Start?
In the unlikely event Brissett’s negotiations with the Cardinals went south, Gardner Minshew would re-enter the picture as Arizona’s starting quarterback. He has started 50 games in the NFL and has demonstrated several times before that he can be plugged into an emergency situation. Despite the Cardinals bringing Brissett in on the assumption he would lead the offense, Minshew’s experience offers a legitimate backup plan.
What Comes Next for the Cardinals?
For now, there is little indication that either side is interested in escalating the situation. Brissett’s decision to continue working with the team while he and the Cardinals negotiate further contract details illustrates that he isn’t focused on anything other than the 2026 season. Nevertheless, the mystery surrounding Arizona’s quarterback room will continue as long as the situation is left unaddressed. The Cardinals may be most confident that Brissett gives them the best chance to succeed in 2026, but the presence of Gardner Minshew ensures they have an experienced contingency plan if negotiations take an unexpected turn.
