Former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Gardner Minshew has agreed to a one-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals worth $8.25 million, according to a source familiar with the deal. The agreement, reached Monday, provides the Cardinals with an experienced option at quarterback as they continue to shape their roster for the upcoming NFL season.
Minshew, who spent last season with the Chiefs, brings starting experience and a reputation as a poised, competitive passer. Over the course of his NFL career, he has been valued for his decision-making, mobility within the pocket, and ability to step into challenging situations when called upon. His addition gives Arizona greater depth at the position and another veteran presence in the quarterbacks room.
For the Cardinals, the move signals an emphasis on stability and flexibility at quarterback. A one-year arrangement allows the team to evaluate Minshew’s fit in their system while maintaining long-term roster flexibility. The financial structure, at $8.25 million for the season, reflects confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully, whether as a starter, spot starter, or key backup depending on how the depth chart develops.
Minshew’s career has been marked by his adaptability to different offensive schemes and his comfort operating in high-pressure moments. He has earned opportunities by demonstrating toughness, leadership traits, and an ability to manage the offense efficiently. Those qualities are expected to be important in Arizona, where competition, preparation, and readiness at the quarterback position will be central storylines heading into training camp.
The Cardinals, working to build a more complete and resilient roster, gain a veteran who is familiar with stepping into new environments and learning new playbooks quickly. For Minshew, the agreement represents another chance to carve out a significant role and to showcase his skills in a new setting.
Terms beyond the reported one-year, $8.25 million figure were not disclosed by the team, and the Cardinals had not issued an official public announcement at the time of the report.
