Jacoby Brissett, 33, has finalized a new one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals worth $15.5 million, with incentives that could push the total value to $21 million. The deal comes as Brissett is slated to be the team's Week 1 starter for the upcoming season.
The Cardinals released Kyler Murray earlier this year, and Brissett, who joined the team last season as a backup, sought a pay increase reflecting his elevated role. His previous contract had a base salary of $4.88 million for 2026, with a potential to reach $5.39 million. This figure was considerably less than what the Cardinals' expected backup, Gardner Minshew, earned in the previous season with the Kansas City Chiefs.
Brissett stepped in for Murray last season after an injury sidelined the starter. During his time on the field, Brissett threw for 3,366 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. However, the Cardinals struggled to a 1-11 record in his starts, finishing last in the NFC West with an overall record of 3-14.
Due to the contract dispute, Brissett did not participate in team offseason workouts. His presence at a Thursday workout signaled that a new agreement was imminent. Teammate Budda Baker, a safety, had publicly supported Brissett's contract negotiations on social media earlier in the month, urging the team to "get it done" and stating that Brissett was not asking for an unreasonable amount.
Brissett's career has included stints with the New England Patriots, Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, Cleveland Browns, and Washington Commanders.