Arizona Cardinals Keep Fans Guessing as Starting QB Decision Looms Amid Ty Simpson Speculation

Arizona Cardinals head coach and front office are keeping their cards close to the vest ahead of the 2026 NFL season, declining to name a starting quarterback as draft speculation swirls around highly-touted rookie prospect Ty Simpson. With both Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew currently on the roster, uncertainty continues to grow in Arizona’s quarterback room.

The Cardinals’ quarterback situation has been a focal point of offseason chatter. While Brissett and Minshew both bring starting experience and a veteran presence, mock drafts and pundits have repeatedly linked Arizona to University of Alabama standout Ty Simpson as a potential long-term solution under center. According to recent reporting, the team has not tipped its hand regarding whether the starting job will go to an established veteran or a possible rookie addition through the NFL Draft.

• Jacoby Brissett, a reliable journeyman, has started 48 games in the NFL, throwing for over 10,000 yards and 51 touchdowns in his career (Pro-Football-Reference).
• Gardner Minshew, known for his improvisational style, started 13 games for the Colts in 2025, throwing for 3,305 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions.
• Ty Simpson, a top quarterback prospect from Alabama, is projected as a first-round pick and has been linked to Arizona in multiple mock drafts.

Despite the speculation, the Cardinals have remained silent on their plans. This approach has only intensified the debate among fans and analysts about the team’s direction. Brissett offers a steady hand and leadership, while Minshew’s aggressive playmaking could spark the offense. Simpson, meanwhile, represents a potential franchise cornerstone, but would require development and patience.

The lack of clarity is strategic. By not naming a starter, Arizona maintains flexibility heading into the draft and training camp, possibly keeping trade or draft options open. The ongoing uncertainty also creates competition, which could help elevate the play of whoever ultimately wins the job. However, it also leaves the fan base clamoring for answers as the draft approaches.

With the NFL Draft on the horizon, all eyes are on the Cardinals’ front office. If they select Simpson, the pressure to start him immediately could mount, despite Brissett and Minshew’s presence. Conversely, passing on the rookie would signal a commitment to experience over potential, at least in the short term.