After eight games sitting inactive, Arizona Cardinals rookie quarterback Carson Beck is officially the team’s backup. That’s a huge leap on the depth chart that saw veteran Gardner Minshew take over the starting role this Monday. Beck, who was chilling as the emergency third-string option through the first half of the season, is now just one play away from getting under center.
LaFleur Backs His Rookie Despite Zero Regular Season Action
Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur is all-in on Beck, even though the kid hasn’t taken a single regular season snap yet. LaFleur dropped the news in his Monday presser, saying Beck is “prepared to go in there if need be.” This isn’t just some casual sideline chat either, LaFleur highlighted Beck’s “full grasp of this game plan, [and] of this system.” He’s been inactive for all eight games this season, and yeah, he’s been dealing with some back spasms recently, but LaFleur’s confidence hasn’t even blinked. The coach added, “It’s no secret, obviously, if something were to happen, it’d be nice to know what we have right there.” You love to hear that kind of trust in a young player.
From Preseason Buzz to Backup QB in Record Time
Beck, the No. 65 overall pick in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft, has had a rollercoaster rookie year even without playing. He generated some serious buzz after his preseason debut in the Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers, throwing for 188 yards and a touchdown on 15 of 19 pass attempts. But then, a rib injury sidelined him for the rest of the preseason, which was a real gut punch for anyone eager to see more of him. Now, Minshew earned the starting gig after stepping in for Jacoby Brissett during Arizona’s thrilling 33-30 victory over the Dallas Cowboys in Week 8, but everyone knows Beck’s opportunity is coming. He’s only 24 years old, and halfway through his rookie season, he’s just one step closer to becoming the Cardinals’ starting quarterback.
Beck is halfway through his rookie season, and he’s now just one snap away from the starting job. Coach LaFleur feels really good about his development, so you gotta believe they’re eager to see what he can do if that call comes. Keep an eye on the Cardinals’ QB situation, because the kid’s moment could be just around the corner.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Bleacher Report.
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