“You know, honestly right now we’re focused on the guys that we got coming in. You got the unit that we have, you know…Gardner, and Jacoby, and Slovis. And then we draft Carson Beck in the third round. He’ll be here Thursday finally, we’re trying to do some zoom staff,” the head coach said via Jim Rome. “So, we got a room that we’re excited to work with and that’s solely where my focus is.”

It’s clear that LaFleur has experience with Brissett and Minshew, although Rodgers’ pedigree would obviously provide a significant upgrade in quality. What will ultimately be A-Rod’s destination for the upcoming 2026 season?

What role will Carson Beck play?

Following his selection as the first pick of the third round in the 2026 NFL Draft, Carson Beck enters a wide-open Arizona Cardinals quarterback room with a legitimate chance to see the field early. Coming off a stellar 2025 campaign with the Miami Hurricanes where he threw for 3,813 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions with a highly efficient 72.4% completion rate, Beck provides the kind of polished pocket presence.

While coach Mike LaFleur has yet to name a starter for the upcoming season, the narrative in camp suggests that the QB1 battle tightens with a healthy Carson Beck now in the mix. If the rookie can translate his elite collegiate production and championship-level experience into the pro system during the summer, he may very well jump the veterans on the depth chart before the season opener.

Brissett’s current situation in Arizona

Despite being the frontrunner for the QB1 spot, Jacoby Brissett is currently at a contractual crossroads with the Arizona Cardinals. Although he is scheduled to earn a base salary of $4.88 million in 2026—with a total cap hit of $9.19 million—the veteran quarterback has notably skipped the team’s early offseason programs.

Brissett is reportedly seeking a contract extension that reflects his status as a starter, as his current deal only includes $1.5 million in guaranteed money for the upcoming season. While the front office has expressed a willingness to address his request, the recent arrival of Gardner Minshew and the drafting of Carson Beck have sparked league-wide rumors that the Cardinals could potentially move Brissett by the trade deadline if a long-term agreement isn’t reached.

Obstacles to Rodgers’ arrival in Glendale

The Steelers placed a rare UFA tender on Rodgers, allowing him to make $15 million in a 10% raise from last year. However, Rodgers could still command a bigger deal elsewhere. While the Arizona Cardinals have cap space, they may hesitate to meet these demands given their recent draft investment in Carson Beck and the signing of Gardner Minshew.

Furthermore, because of the tender, any team signing the 42-year-old veteran would have to surrender a valuable compensatory pick to Pittsburgh, a high price that likely keeps Rodgers from heading to the desert.

Per ESPN, an anonymous Power Four defensive coordinator said about Beck, “I think he’ll be solid. I don’t think he’ll be special. Whether it’s poise or accuracy at key moments, he just seems to have too many misses.”

Those are some harsh words regarding how the opposing defensive coordinators saw Beck. Now, Beck was a second-round pick, so the fact is expectations were never that high to be quite fair.

Beck landing on the Cardinals could be a make-or-break event in his career

The Cardinals could potentially have one of, if not the weakest (on paper) QB room in the NFL. Brissett and Minshew are backups fighting for a starting spot. Hence, if Beck impresses, he could get the starting gig right from the get-go.

However, if Beck fails to even make this a debate, his career might start with him being a backup and never getting the chance to become a starter. Hence, it’s one of those moments where the rookie must be ready to step up.

The Cardinals are in a bad situation overall

The Cardinals are optimistic with Mike LaFleur coming in as the head coach. Besides, they drafted a generational talent like Jeremiyah Love at running back. The Cardinals also have awesome skill position players.

Still, they are in a bad situation. They don’t have a star quarterback, their defense is not precisely elite, and the division in which they play is as tough as one can be. The San Francisco 49ers, the Seattle Seahawks, and the Los Angeles Rams all had 12+ wins last season. The Cardinals had three.

“He’s probably reaching full health now…that guy’s best football is ahead of him, too. He’s healthy, and I think he’s going to do great,” Beck’s former coach at the Miami Hurricanes, Mario Cristobal, revealed via PHNX Cardinals on X.

Now the final decision will rest with LaFleur heading into Week 1. Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew present the veteran options on the depth chart, though the recently drafted rookie will look to seize his opportunity as he enters the NFL.

Beck’s numbers put pressure on the Cardinals’ QB battle

During his 2025 standout season with the Miami Hurricanes, Carson Beck delivered elite production under the guidance of Mario Cristobal, who has long been a vocal supporter of the quarterback’s talent and pocket poise. Beck orchestrated a high-powered offense, completing 72.4% of his passes for 3,813 yards and 30 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions, proving he could thrive in a pro-style system.

After being selected 65th overall in the 2026 NFL Draft, his accuracy and maturity make him a strong candidate to push for a starting role in his rookie season. Given the team’s current quarterback room and Beck’s polished skill set, he has a legitimate path to leading the offense in Glendale from day one.

The injury that has plagued Beck in recent times

Carson Beck’s recent career has been significantly impacted by a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right throwing arm. He suffered the devastating injury during the 2024 SEC Championship Game while playing for Georgia, which required surgery and a grueling rehabilitation process that kept him off the field for months.

Although he successfully returned to lead Miami to a national title appearance in 2025, the injury—and a perceived slight dip in arm strength—remains a focal point as he begins his professional career in Arizona.

A tough schedule ahead for Arizona

Although the exact dates of the games are not yet fully confirmed, the Arizona Cardinals are set to face a particularly challenging 2026 season. Considered by many to have the toughest schedule among all 32 franchises, these are the opponents LaFleur’s team will face starting in Week 1.

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.

According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, several teams are keeping a close eye on Arizona as a “potential landing spot” for Beck, noting that the Cardinals are actively looking to trade back. However, Schultz emphasizes that the QB is far from a “lock” to land in the NFC West just yet.

Beck is one of 19 quarterbacks available for tonight’s action. While he may not boast the highest analytical rating in the class, his extensive experience at the high-major level could make him a high-value target for the Cardinals, or any franchise hunting for a potential cornerstone under center.

Some analysts missed the mark on Beck

Several Draft experts and a wave of analysts projected Beck as a Day 1 pick, but that ultimately failed to materialize. This includes Tom Pelissero, who, while acknowledging a second-round landing spot was probable, held a lingering belief that Beck could have snuck into the first round.

Among the most high-profile mock drafts leading into Round 2, Jacob Camenker of USA TODAY actually has Beck sliding out of the second round entirely. Camenker expects him to be off the board in the third round, potentially staying in Miami to play for the Dolphins, a team currently in the market for fresh talent at the position.

Beck’s final campaign at Miami was every bit as impressive as his tenure at Georgia. While a national title eluded him, he posted career-highs with the Hurricanes in touchdowns, completions, and games played (16). He also turned in his second-best statistical year in terms of production, racking up 3,813 passing yards.

With a reported NIL valuation peaking at over $1.5 million according to On3, Beck’s financial success in college mirrored his on-field production. His ability to navigate high-pressure environments at both Georgia and Miami has several QB-needy teams eyeing him as a Day 2 steal.

Garrett Nussmeier follows closely as a high-upside passer who proved his worth in LSU’s explosive offense. His quick release and fearless vertical shots kept the Tigers in the SEC hunt, showcasing the arm talent necessary for modern NFL schemes.

Quarterbacks available for the second round

Cade Klubnik is another massive name on this list, entering the pros with a Clemson pedigree and an NIL valuation once estimated near $1 million. His mobility and experience in big-game atmospheres provide a unique floor for NFL teams looking for a dual-threat backup.

Drew Allar brings the “prototypical” NFL frame at 6’5″, having led Penn State with an impressive touchdown-to-interception ratio. While his consistency wavered, his raw arm strength remains one of the most intriguing tools available in this class.

Diego Pavia and Taylen Green represent the ultimate “gamers” of the group, known for their ability to scramble and extend plays under pressure. Pavia’s legendary toughness at Vanderbilt and Green’s elite size make them prime candidates for creative offensive coordinators.

Joey Aguilar and Luke Altmyer provide additional depth, both coming off productive seasons where they eclipsed the 3,000-yard passing mark. Their ability to read defenses pre-snap suggests they could transition quickly to a professional playbook.

Cole Payton of North Dakota State adds a small-school intrigue, carrying the tradition of athletic Bison quarterbacks into the draft. His efficiency in the run game and red-zone decision-making could see him rise during the final hours of the draft.

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.

• QB Carson Beck
• QB Drew Allar
• QB Garrett Nussmeier
• RB Mike Washington
• WR Denzel Boston
• WR Antonio Williams
• WR Zachariah Branch
• WR Germie Bernard
• WR Ted Hurst
• TE Eli Stowers
• OL Chase Bisontis
• OL Gennings Dunker

Beck should appeal to coaches looking for a high-end game manager for the QB1-QB2 role. The 6-foot-4, 233-pounder logged 43 starts in six college seasons, displaying pinpoint accuracy and touch as a rhythm passer from the pocket.

What positions Beck as a good prospect

Beck routinely delivered in big moments for Miami and Georgia, and those winning plays should translate into solid late-game play as a pro. With a polished game that had been honed in pro-style offensive schemes, particularly his ability to operate from under center and execute various play fakes, Beck is prepared and ready to make his mark at the next level.

What is coming on day 2

In the NFL Draft, we saw trades between division rivals, the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys, pulled one off, as did the Buffalo Bills and the New England Patriots. Ty Simpson came off the board much earlier than anyone anticipated, and 32 players began their NFL journeys.

However, there were still six more rounds remaining, with over 200 players yet to be drafted. That meant there was a lot of talent left on the board. That started with Jermod McCoy, considered one of the top cornerbacks in the entire draft. But McCoy faced serious injury questions in the past few days, stemming from an ACL surgery prior to this season.

Other top talents included Washington WR Denzel Boston, Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, and Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, who could come off the board early on Friday night.

According to Mike DeFabo of The Athletic, Steelers new head coach Mike McCarthy said he favors quarterbacks with “big hands and long arms.” Also, he favors floor over ceiling. Hence, DeFabo thinks the Steelers could perfectly target Carson Beck in the middle rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft.

This would be a mid-round swing after the Steelers cover their main priorities in the draft. Of course, this wouldn’t jeopardize Rodgers‘ spot as the starting QB if he comes back. Beck would be a project to compete with Will Howard for the QB2 spot.

Carson Beck is an aged rookie

Carson Beck didn’t play three years in College Football, as most top-tier prospects do. He played six years in college, so he is now a 23-year-old rookie. Beck played in top-tier programs like Georgia and Miami (FL). With the Hurricanes, he was close to winning the National Championship, but lost the final game in heartbreaking fashion.

Beck is more of a pocket passer than a dual-threat quarterback, but he is mobile enough. Last season, he had 3,813 yards, 30 passing touchdowns, 12 interceptions, and a 72.4% completion percentage.

Beck’s draft projection

Beck is projected as a late Day 2 or early Day 3 pick. Depending on mock drafts, he could go between Round 3 and Round 5 of the 2026 NFL Draft. The Steelers have Pick 76, Pick 85, and Pick 99 in the third round.

The team also has two fourth rounds with the 121st and 135th selections. Hence, there are plenty of windows for the team to pick Carson Beck. It will all depend on how their board looks out come Day 3 of the NFL Draft.

“Looking back at it, I don’t regret it,” he revealed on a dialogue with Jon Gruden. “Just because of the experiences I’ve been able to have. But again, at that point, I didn’t know what was the right decision.”

He also added: “I thought there was more in the tank. Again, a huge part of it was I wanted to win a national championship. I know that I had two as a backup but I wanted to win one as the quarterback.”

After a great year in Miami, he finally decided to take the most important step in his career. What will ultimately be the destination of the former Georgia Bulldogs player in the NFL?

Beck’s latest numbers in the NCAAF

After transferring to Miami for the 2025 season, Carson Beck led the Hurricanes to a historic 13-3 record and a spot in the National Championship game. He finished the year as one of the most efficient passers in the nation, posting an FBS second-best 72.4% completion percentage while throwing for over 3,000 yards and 29 touchdowns.

Despite his stellar individual performance, Beck’s postseason run ended in heartbreak at Hard Rock Stadium, where he fell 27-21 in the final to Fernando Mendoza and the top-ranked Indiana Hoosiers.

NFL Draft projection

Following his strong recovery season at Miami, Carson Beck has solidified his status as a high-floor developmental prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. While he was once considered a potential first-overall pick, most analysts now project him as a Day 2 selection, likely falling between the second and third rounds.