Gardner Minshew is expected to join the Arizona Cardinals as a backup quarterback, according to reports on Mar. 9. Minshew will reportedly sign for about $5.75 million and is anticipated to provide veteran support behind Jacoby Brissett in a quarterback room that currently includes only Kedon Slovis.
The addition of Minshew comes after other quarterbacks, Malik Willis and Tua Tagovailoa, were reported to be heading to the Dolphins and Falcons, respectively. Last season, Minshew served as Patrick Mahomes’ backup with the Kansas City Chiefs and brings experience from 47 career starts over seven seasons with teams including the Jaguars, Eagles, Colts, Raiders, and Chiefs. He holds a career passer rating of 88.0 with 68 touchdowns and 35 interceptions.
Brissett appears likely to retain his starting role following a season where he developed strong chemistry with All-Pro tight end Trey McBride and wide receivers Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr., when healthy. The team may still look to add more depth at quarterback through the upcoming draft.
In other roster news, safety Jalen Thompson is reportedly leaving the Cardinals after seven years in Arizona for a three-year, $33 million deal with the Dallas Cowboys. His departure breaks up his partnership with Budda Baker in the secondary. Rabbit Taylor-Demerson could have an opportunity to step into Thompson’s role as defensive coordinator Nick Rallis evaluates options among defensive backs.
The Arizona Cardinals are recognized as the oldest continuously operating professional football franchise in the United States according to their official website. The team serves the greater Phoenix area and hosts home games in Glendale, Arizona according to their official website. The Cardinals compete in the NFC West division and captured an NFC championship in 2008 according to their official website.