Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur confirmed on Monday that veteran quarterback Gardner Minshew has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 season after sustaining an ulnar ligament injury that will require surgery. The injury was diagnosed earlier this week, and Minshew is expected to undergo the procedure on Wednesday.
Carson Beck steps into the starting role
With Minshew sidelined, LaFleur announced that rookie Carson Beck will assume the starting quarterback duties. Beck, a third‑round pick from the 2026 NFL Draft, had been the team’s third‑string quarterback before the Cardinals traded Jacoby Brissett last week. He moved up to backup in Week 9 and now earns his first start against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET.
LaFleur praised Beck’s maturity and preparation, noting that the cultures at the University of Georgia and the University of Miami helped shape the young signal‑caller. “He’s been professional since day one, and we’re excited to see him run our offense,” LaFleur said.
Beck’s college pedigree and preseason glimpse
Beck spent six years playing college football—five at Georgia and his final season at Miami. He became a full‑time starter in his junior year at Georgia before transferring to Miami for his senior campaign. At Miami, Beck led the Hurricanes to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, completing 72.4% of his passes (the ACC best) for 3,813 yards, 30 touchdowns and 12 interceptions over 16 games.
In the NFL preseason, Beck saw limited action due to a rib injury but impressed in the Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers, completing 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and one touchdown. LaFleur said those reps gave the coaching staff confidence that Beck can handle the pressure of a starting role.
What the Cardinals hope to achieve
The Cardinals are looking to stay competitive in the NFC West despite the setback at quarterback. The Rams, who host the Cardinals this Sunday, are a strong divisional opponent, and the game will serve as a litmus test for Beck’s readiness. LaFleur emphasized that the entire offensive unit will be focused on supporting the rookie, stating, “We’ll give him the tools he needs to succeed and trust the process that got us here.”
Arizona fans will be watching closely to see how Beck adapts to the speed of the professional game. The team’s offensive line, receiving corps, and running backs will play a crucial role in easing the transition. If Beck can replicate his college efficiency and the poise he showed in the Hall of Fame Game, the Cardinals could maintain momentum heading into the second half of the season.
Looking ahead
Beyond the Rams matchup, the Cardinals have a challenging schedule that includes games against division rivals Seattle, San Francisco and the upcoming home stand against the Denver Broncos. Success in those contests will hinge on how quickly Beck can develop chemistry with his teammates and execute LaFleur’s offensive scheme.
For now, the focus in Arizona is on supporting the young quarterback and rallying behind the team as they navigate this unexpected change. The Cardinals organization remains optimistic that Beck’s promotion will bring fresh energy to the offense and keep the franchise on a path toward playoff contention.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
