What happened: The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to transition to rookie quarterback Carson Beck, according to Mike Garafolo. Veteran starter Gardner Minshew faces an uncertain hold on the starting role following Sunday's offensive struggles. Beck, drafted in the third round out of Miami, is positioned to make his first career NFL start.
Why it matters: Arizona has slipped to 3-6 through nine games in 2026, sitting 14th in the NFC standings after generating just three points in Sunday's defeat at Seattle. Minshew is also slated to undergo medical testing on his right elbow, accelerating the timeline to evaluate Beck. Inserting the rookie allows Arizona to assess its future under center across the final stretch of the season.
By the numbers: Arizona Cardinals in 2026 through 9 games: 3-6 record, 14th seed in the NFC. Week 9 result: 17-3 loss at Seattle Seahawks (3 points scored).
What to watch: The Cardinals will confirm their starting quarterback plans ahead of Week 10 practices. Medical evaluation on Minshew's elbow will clarify whether Beck assumes primary duties immediately.