Carson Beck Steps Up as Starting Quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals

Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur has named Carson Beck as the team’s starting quarterback after Gardner Minshew sustained an ulnar ligament injury, requiring surgery. Minshew’s injury has sidelined him for the remainder of the season. Beck, previously the No. 3 quarterback, moved up to the backup position after the Cardinals traded Jacoby Brissett last week.

Beck is set to make his debut against the Los Angeles Rams on Sunday. He has been with the Cardinals since being drafted in the third round of the 2026 NFL Draft. LaFleur commended Beck’s professional attitude and credited his development to the cultures at Georgia and Miami, where Beck played college football.

Despite a rib injury limiting his preseason action, Beck impressed during the Hall of Fame Game against the Carolina Panthers in August by completing 15 of 19 passes for 188 yards and one touchdown. This week will mark his first practice reps as the starting quarterback, where LaFleur is eager to see his performance in leading the offense.

Beck’s college career spanned six years, with five seasons at Georgia and a final season at Miami. He became the full-time starter in his junior year and later transferred due to challenges in his senior season. At Miami, he led his team to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, completing 72.4% of his passes for 3,813 yards, 30 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions over 16 games.

Carson Beck’s NFL regular-season debut against the Rams is scheduled for Sunday at 4:05 p.m. ET. His journey from college to the professional stage showcases his resilience and readiness for this pivotal role.