Following a disappointing 2025 NFL season, the Cardinals released Kyler Murray in March. Now, they have launched a new competition, with high hopes regarding what rookie Carson Beck can achieve.

“Just really excited to add him to the group,” general manager Monti Ossenfort said. “We’ve got two guys that have played and started a lot of games in the NFL in Jacoby and Gardner. I think that’s gonna be a great competition. We’ll add him in here, and we’ll bring him in and see how much he can handle. We’ll just see how that competition plays out in that room. In the end, the guy who’s gonna give us the best chance to win that’s who’s gonna be out there on Sundays.”

Can Carson Beck be the Cardinals’ starting QB in Week 1?

Neither Jacoby Brissett nor Gardner Minshew are regarded as the long-term future of Arizona, and that’s why the Cardinals won’t name a starter yet. While Carson Beck was not a first-round pick, the Cardinals hope he is the hidden gem who could become the team’s long-awaited franchise quarterback.

Beck was the third quarterback selected in the draft, following Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson. His college production and 6-foot-4 frame lead many to believe he was a steal, yet he still has much to prove.

While Brissett may start Week 1 due to his veteran experience, the Cardinals are aware that evaluating Beck early will be vital to determining if they need to draft another signal-caller in 2027 or if the former Miami standout is their guy.

A tough test for Carson Beck

While Kyler Murray’s tenure ended without meeting high expectations, the Cardinals are desperate for a success story. Carson Beck aims to provide that, though the challenge ahead is significant.

In the NFC West, the Seahawks, Rams, and 49ers are all regarded as Super Bowl contenders, while the Cardinals are not. However, if Beck can lead a turnaround and push for the playoffs in his debut season, it could be the spark Arizona has sought for years.

When asked about Beck’s role, Cardinals GM Monti Ossenfort said “We just announced his name [Beck] about a half hour ago. We just want to get him in the building. We’re excited to have great competition in that room and we’ll see how it shakes out.”

New head coach Mike LaFleur also spoke on the matter with kind of a similar message. “It benefits anyone at any position to be able to sit back. Sometimes guys don’t have a choice because you have to put your best 22 on the field, so we’ll see where this all shakes out.”

Carson Beck compared to Jacoby Brissett

While the comparison is tough to make since Beck hasn’t played a single snap in the NFL, styles are different. Brissett offers reliable, short-term stability as a seasoned starter, while Beck represents a high-ceiling prospect for the future.

Brissett is looking to get a new contract that resembles a payout for a starting quarterback. However, according to the general manager and head coach, he is not the starter anyway. Hence, if he wants a new contract, then he also needs to beat everyone in the QB room.

There’s a third wheel willing to play spoiler

While the narrative goes with Brissett and Beck, a certain Gardner Minshew could very well compete with both of them. Minshew has a 17-30 record, while Brissett has a 20-45 record. Minshew has a better completion percentage, passer rating, more pass yards per attempt and yards per game than Brissett.

Also, Brissett has 76 touchdowns to Minshew’s 68, but it’s eight touchdowns in 18 more games. Hence, Minshew is very well in the mix to become the starting QB, as his numbers are better than Brissett’s, and he beating Beck could be very much in the table.

Unlike previous drafts, quarterback is not a pressing need across the league. That reality has pushed a number of talented prospects into Day 2, creating potential value picks for teams willing to wait. For front offices, the question is no longer about urgency, it’s about opportunity.

A handful of teams could still be in the market. The Arizona Cardinals, New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and possibly the Pittsburgh Steelers all have varying degrees of uncertainty at the position. Whether it’s long-term planning or depth concerns, each could justify taking a quarterback if the value aligns.

Top QB prospects still on the board for Round 2 in 2026 NFL Draft

Carson Beck enters Day 2 as one of the most polished passers available. The Miami product offers prototypical size, pocket presence, and a calm decision-making style that could translate quickly at the next level. He may not carry elite athletic upside, but his floor makes him an appealing option for quarterback-needy teams. A proven ‘veteran’ in college.

Garrett Nussmeier from LSU brings a different profile. More aggressive, more willing to push the ball downfield, and capable of creating explosive plays. That play style comes with risk, but in the right system, it could unlock high-end production. Teams looking for upside may view him as one of the most intriguing names still available. A year ago, he was seen as a Top 10 pick.

Drew Allar of Penn State remains a fascinating case. Once viewed as a potential first-round talent, his slide into Day 2 reflects inconsistency rather than lack of ability. With his arm strength and physical tools, Allar still offers significant upside for a team willing to develop him. The Steelers could be the team to watch here.

Cole Payton from North Dakota State represents the classic sleeper. Coming from a smaller program, he may not have faced elite competition weekly, but his versatility and athleticism stand out. He could appeal to teams looking for a developmental quarterback with dual-threat potential.

Taylen Green of Arkansas rounds out the group as perhaps the most dynamic athlete among the available quarterbacks. His mobility and playmaking ability make him an intriguing modern option, though refinement as a passer will be key to his long-term success.

Potential fits and what comes next

For the Arizona Cardinals, adding a young quarterback could be about securing depth and future flexibility. The New York Jets may also explore options, especially if they’re not fully settled long term at the position. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns continue to operate with uncertainty at the QB position, making a Day 2 selection a logical move.

The Pittsburgh Steelers are a more subtle candidate. While not an immediate necessity, the situation could shift depending on health concerns and long-term planning. That makes a developmental prospect an option worth considering. Right now, they just have Will Howard and Mason Rudolph as Aaron Rodgers hasn’t said anything.

Ultimately, this isn’t a quarterback-heavy draft in terms of demand, but that’s exactly what makes it interesting. With less pressure and more talent available than expected, Day 2 could deliver surprising value. The teams that capitalize may not make the loudest headlines now, but they could end up making the smartest decisions in the long run.

“Yeah, I mean I love my running backs I have now. But having that kind of running back in the backfield with Jaxson. You don’t know who is getting the ball. Love gives me the opportunity to not face double coverage,” Nabers stated during his live reaction to the Draft on Bleacher Report.

With Love out of the picture and set to fly out to Arizona, the Giants’ running back depth chart will likely remain the same (with the likes of Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy, and Devin Singletary) through Day 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

The Giants’ No. 5 pick is in

Against all odds, the Giants selected OLB Arvell Reese out of Ohio State with the fifth overall selection in the 2026 NFL Draft. If there’s a position New York has covered it’s on the edge of the defensive line. Even Nabers was caught completely off guard by the pick.

“I mean, I love the player, don’t get me wrong. But just like, ‘where do you play?’ You want to be on the outside of the rush, but we just drafted somebody [Abdul Carter] last year to do that same position,” Nabers admitted his confusion at the Giants’ selection with the No. 5 pick.

Moreover, the star wideout went as far as to criticize the decision not to select safety Caleb Downs as he was available. By the time New York drafts again with the 10th pick, the star out of Ohio State may be off the board.

Nabers wanted help on offense

It’s clear the Giants aren’t taking the route Nabers would’ve liked in the 2026 NFL Draft. In the WR1’s ideal world, New York would have taken Downs with the fifth overall selection and look for someone who can help make his life easier on offense with the No. 10 selection. However, NFL Drafts are rarely perfect. With Love off the board early because of the Cardinals, the Giants had to adapt, and it may be at the expense of Nabers’ wish.

According to scouts, Ty Simpson is the second-best quarterback prospect in this class, trailing only Fernando Mendoza. Simpson is confident in his talent but acknowledges that he does not control his ultimate draft fate.

On Wednesday, Simpson stated that he has done all he can to persuade teams to draft him on Day 1. While he is certain of his abilities, several factors—including his limited 15-game starting experience—could cause him to slide into the second round.

“It’s out of my control,” Simpson said about being drafted on Day 1, via NFL Media. “I’ve done what I can do. I put my best foot forward, and whatever happens, happens. I’m at peace with it. I’m understanding that anything could happen. Just really excited to get started.”

Could the Rams draft Ty Simpson?

This week, reports emerged that Jimmy Garoppolo is considering retirement. Amid this uncertainty, the Rams have emerged as a strong contender to land a top-tier quarterback prospect.

With Matthew Stafford potentially retiring after the 2026 season—following his 2025 NFL MVP campaign—the Rams desperately need a smooth transition plan. This raises the question: Is it worth using their No. 13 overall pick on a new signal-caller?

The Rams may wait to see how the first 12 picks develop before deciding on Simpson. If he is available at No. 13 and other targets are off the board, it could be a strategic move to draft him and allow him to develop behind Stafford for a year.

Teams in need of a quarterback in the 2026 NFL Draft

Entering draft week, several clubs are in the market for a quarterback, though not all are expected to select one on Day 1. Los Angeles could now be in need of a signal-caller due to Garoppolo’s retirement.

As of today, the Raiders (who are locked in on Fernando Mendoza), Jets, Cardinals, Saints, Dolphins, and Rams are the teams most likely to use a high-round pick on a signal-caller.

The Cardinals had always felt like the likeliest team to trade down out of the top five in the 2026 NFL Draft. However, that may have changed. “There is growing chatter in league circles that Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love is in play with Arizona at No. 3 overall,” as reported by insider Adam Schefter.

If Love is gone at No. 3, it might trigger a chaotic domino effect—one that could suit the Giants marvellously. The Giants’ bold plan for the 2026 NFL Draft may work out to perfection. The Tennessee Titans have long been considered the favorites to draft Love; if he is taken off the board right before their pick at fourth overall, the Titans would likely pivot to a “best player available” selection.

Potential dream scenario for NY Giants

Most signs indicate Tennessee would then choose between linebacker Sonny Styles or offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. Should that happen, New York may be handed an opportunity to trade down on a silver platter. A talent like EDGE David Bailey could prompt several teams to consider trading up.

Since the Giants do not necessarily need another star edge pass rusher, they can afford to move down a few spots and secure even more picks to bolster their already significant draft capital.

“Dream scenario for Giants that is close to coming to fruition. There will be many teams interested in coming up for David Bailey. And New York will listen,” as reported by SNY’s Connor Hughes on X.

NY Giants’ draft picks

Heading into a crucial weekend—John Harbaugh’s first NFL draft in East Rutherford—the Giants own a total of eight selections in 2026. The trade of Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals secured the 10th overall selection, giving the Giants three picks in the top 40.

New York is clearly planning for the long term. Just as the Giants are reportedly waiting until after the draft to sign veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader—in order to protect their compensatory pick formula in 2027—they may also consider trading down from their 5th overall pick to acquire even more capital.

Still, anything can happen. Just like the Cardinals are suddenly in play for Love, change can go down in the blink of an eye during draft week. As it stands, the Giants own the following selections:

• No. 5
• No. 10 (via Cincinnati)
• No. 37
• No.105
• No.145
• No.186
• No.192 (via Miami)
• No.193 (via Dallas)

Earlier this year, the Cardinals decided to release Kyler Murray, who quickly joined the Vikings. This left Arizona with a difficult choice: to enter the 2026 season with a veteran or draft a new franchise quarterback.

It was initially expected that Jacoby Brissett would take over as QB1. However, he has skipped the Cardinals’ first offseason workouts due to a contract dispute—an issue that could force Arizona to sign another signal-caller.

Brissett’s holdout may lead the Cardinals to another veteran QB

As of today, the Cardinals are not regarded as true contenders. With Kyler Murray’s exit, the biggest question revolves around the future QB1, and there is currently no clear answer.

Brissett wants a new contract. In 2025, he signed a two-year, $12.5 million deal with Arizona that runs through the 2026 season. He is aware that he is the most reliable option the club currently has and is using that as leverage.

Nevertheless, his holdout may backfire. Jimmy Garoppolo was linked to Arizona after Murray’s exit, and unfortunately for Brissett, Jimmy G is not the only veteran option available on the market.

While some believe Aaron Rodgers could be tempted by Arizona, the truth is that the NFC West is highly competitive, and he may prefer to stay in the AFC North with the Steelers.

Another real option is Russell Wilson, who has struggled since his departure from the Seahawks. However, he knows the NFC West incredibly well, which could be key in helping Arizona avoid being viewed as the worst team in the league.

Other veterans like Tyrod Taylor or Derek Carr are on the market, but Carr reportedly only has eyes for a Super Bowl contender—a status the Cardinals are far from reaching.

Are the Cardinals drafting a QB in 2026?

In recent days, the Cardinals hosted Ty Simpson for a pre-draft visit. They currently hold the No. 3 overall pick, giving them a legitimate chance to land the former Alabama standout.

However, reports suggest Arizona may not be interested in using such a high pick on a quarterback. The Cardinals might decide to trade down and wait for the later rounds to select a signal-caller, hoping to find a “hidden gem” on Day 2 or 3 of the upcoming draft.

According to Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk, the Cardinals still have the third pick and Ty Simpson might be the answer at quarterback. However, Florio also states that the Cardinals “could, in theory, trade down and take Simpson in a lower spot. And there could be a team that sufficiently covets running back Jeremiyah Love to try to leapfrog the Titans at No. 4.”

With Jacoby Brissett no-showing the Cardinals workout due to his contract dispute, the Cardinals might go ahead and use their draft power to bring a young, big-time prospect like Simpson.

Ty Simpson’s draft spot is a mystery

While he is unarguably the second-best quarterback in this draft, his actual drafting spot is not clear at all. While many regard him as a first-round pick, it will all depend on how teams address their needs, or whether they want the best player available.

That’s why Florio doesn’t rule out the possibility of the team trading down. However, what’s clear is that the Cardinals might have a new priority given the Brissett situation. The other QB that could start for them is Gardner Minshew, who is recovering from a knee injury.

Is Ty Simpson NFL ready?

Viewed as a boom-or-bust player, Ty Simpson is for some analysts like Chase Daniel the most pro-ready QB in the draft. However, it’s not like Simpson has the ceiling of Fernando Mendoza, for instance.

Still, many praise his IQ, his ability to dissect defense’s weaknesses in the film room all the way to the field, and his accuracy. It also helps that Simpson played in an NFL-esque system like Alabama.

While Brissett won’t be fined, since this work is voluntary, it gives a clear message to the team: give the QB more money, or else. The absence was reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Media.

The reason, according to Rapoport is simple, Brissett’s wish is a contractual commitment that reflects a QB1 pay. As for now, he is owed a base salary of $4.88 million with $1.5 million guaranteed.

Is Brissett’s QB1 spot guaranteed?

While Brissett is clearly the frontrunner, the Cardinals also brought Gardner Minshew, though he is recovering from a knee injury. Hence, Brissett will have competition to earn his starting spot, even if he is starting with a good leeway.

Brissett threw for 3,366 yards on 64.9% completion with 23 touchdowns and eight interceptions. While those raw numbers aren’t bad, he still had a 1-11 record. Now, Mike LaFleur will have to decide which quarterback he will put in the starting lineup.

The Cardinals have great players and capital to turn around their situation

Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr. are a very talented receiver-duo, and Trey McBride is a top-tier tight end. Also, they have a capable running back coming back in James Conner, and reports say they could pick Jeremiyah Love after a newly-picked interest.

Hence, whether it’s Jacoby Brissett or Gardner Minshew, they will have good company to thrive, especially as it’s Mike LaFleur coming in and calling plays. Therefore, expectations are on the rise for Arizona.

According to Jordan Schultz of Schultz Report, “the belief is a trade down is very much in play, similar to how Arizona operated in 2023 when they moved back from that same #3 spot.” Arizona is, all of a sudden, a huge team to follow one week from the NFL Draft.

This comes almost simultaneously to the idea that the Giants and Titans might not get the chance to draft Love because of a new Cardinals interest in the running back. So, now the Cardinals might be the ones putting many teams on notice.

Mike LaFleur needs to revamp his team

In 2023, when the Cardinals did trade down from the third pick, they added an extra first rounder and still landed the player they wanted to pick back then. LaFleur is coming into a team that lost its quarterback and needs plenty of new talent to become relevant again.

Depending on the Cardinals’ draft board, they could repeat that formula once again. However, that’s all a mystery, as Schultz pointed out. The Cardinals hold power in their hands right now. It’s up to them to play their cards correctly.

Cardinals’ biggest needs ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft

The offensive line and pass-rush are top needs for the Cardinals, but also running back. The trenches are important in any successful football team, though having a generational playmaker also helps the Cardinals.

Also, if the team is not high enough on Jacoby Brissett, they could always go quarterback and draft Ty Simpson. If that’s their way to go, they could trade down a bit, as Simpson is likely to go way lower than third.

That is because the Cardinals have the number three pick, while Titans and Giants are fourth and fifth, respectively. According to Connor Hughes of SNY, “don’t be surprised if the Cardinals select Love. There’s a lot of smoke there.”

This comes as a surprise, since the Cardinals haven’t been featured in the Love sweepstakes throughout the offseason. This would put both the Titans and Giants in “plan B” modes. The Cardinals have been a mystery as no one really knows what their focus will be in the draft.

The Cardinals know what a lack of RBs can do

Last season, the Cardinals saw James Conner, Bam Knight, and Trey Benson all suffer season-ending injuries. They also suffered injuries to Emari Demercado and Michael Carter. Hence, it’s within their best interest to not suffer that issue again.

With Conner coming back off an ankle/foot tear, having Love would actually provide them with an incredible two-man punch. Love would be the home run hitter, Conner the powerful back.

Cardinals need firepower

Arizona needs to boost up its offense. After letting Kyler Murray go, the team is marrying to Jacoby Brissett as the quarterback, and hence, it needs the best talent available, and Love is the best talent available at number three.

Also, there is the possibility of the Cardinals trading down and get more picks to accumulate more assets. However, now the Giants and Titans are on alert watch just one week before the 2026 NFL Draft.