The Arizona Cardinals are absolutely spinning right now, with open training camp practices kicking off this afternoon and Sunday, but it’s the behind-the-scenes contract drama that’s truly wild. General Manager Monti Ossenfort, who’s been riding a rough 15-36 record over three seasons and stares down a team projected to be the worst in the league this year, is somehow pulling off some seriously savvy contract moves this offseason. Former Cardinals beat writer Kyle Odegard, who used to work for the team, even praised Ossenfort for the first time ever for how he’s handling negotiations. Talk about a plot twist nobody saw coming!
Brissett’s Battle for the Buck, Minshew Taking First Team?
The biggest showdown is clearly with quarterback Jacoby Brissett. He showed up to camp but was relegated to light work thanks to some offseason inactivity, and get this: Minshew was already out there with the first-team reps at the start of drills! Coach Mike LaFleur says negotiations with Brissett are “ongoing,” but the message from the Cardinals is screaming loud and clear: “We may give you a few bucks, Jacoby, but nothing close to what you want.” This is a smart play, honestly. The Cardinals aren’t exactly winning a ton of games with or without Brissett this season, so why overpay? Brissett has zero leverage, and Ossenfort has to stand his ground, even if the noise from fans gets louder. People might say they need to give Brissett a raise since he’s the starter, but the reality is they don’t. They hunted everywhere for a replacement, drafted Carson Beck, and only then begrudgingly made it seem like Brissett might be the guy. They might be willing to bump him up to the $8-10 million range, but there’s no way they’re caving to his $15 million demand when he might only start eight games this year.
Injuries and Mysteries Loom Over Camp
Beyond the contract fireworks, there are some serious question marks about player health and availability. Michael Wilson, at least, is a full go and doing everything. But Paris Johnson Jr., their big offensive line piece, got slapped on the PUP list with a “minor knee issue.” Now, call it speculation, but the timing for PJJ to show up and then immediately not be able to practice feels pretty darn convenient. Plus, there’s the whole Josh Sweat situation: literally no one has any idea what’s happening with him! These early camp hiccups, especially PJJ’s, just add more layers to what’s already a challenging outlook for the desert birds.
Ossenfort’s Wild Ride: Job on the Line, But Winning in Negotiations?
Let’s be real, Monti Ossenfort’s overall track record isn’t exactly shining. His 15-36 record in three seasons is tough, and with the Cardinals projected to be the worst team in the NFL in Year 4 and a “juggernaut” early-season schedule, it wouldn’t shock anyone if he gets canned before Halloween. And honestly, I’d be absolutely floored if he’s kept on for a fifth year. But despite all that, he’s showing a surprising knack for playing hardball in these contract negotiations. It’s a weird flex for a GM whose job is hanging by a thread, but credit where credit’s due: he’s taking a firm stance. So, what’s next for this Cardinals squad as camp heats up? For Brissett, it’s simple: start at least six games, keep them competitive, and actually win some if he wants to hold onto that starting gig. Anything less, especially a 1-5 record or worse, and those calls for Carson Beck are gonna be deafening. Ossenfort’s job is on the line, but he’s showing a surprising knack for playing hardball in negotiations. This season is gonna be a wild ride, and every snap, every contract, every injury update is gonna matter big time for the desert birds.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Revenge of the Birds.
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