Jacoby Brissett Set to Start for Cardinals in Week 6
The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to turn to veteran quarterback Jacoby Brissett for their Week 6 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts, as starting quarterback Kyler Murray remains sidelined with a foot injury sustained during last week’s crushing defeat to the Tennessee Titans.
Cardinals QB Jacoby Brissett is expected to start Sunday in place of Kyler Murray, who is dealing with a foot injury, per me and @JFowlerESPN.
Brissett will make his first start for the Cardinals against the Colts, a team he played for from 2017-2020. pic.twitter.com/KWicOlo02D
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) October 12, 2025
Murray’s Injury Timeline
Murray suffered what has been described as a mid-foot sprain during the Cardinals’ devastating 26-24 loss to Tennessee in Week 5. The injury occurred when Murray dove to recover an errant snap that struck him in the facemask, forcing him to miss two offensive plays as he was evaluated in the blue tent and locker room.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Murray is dealing with a version of a Lisfranc injury that could potentially keep him out beyond this weekend. The concern is that pushing the quarterback too early could lead to aggravation of the injury.
After missing the first two practices of the week, Murray returned to limited participation on Friday. However, the Cardinals are taking a cautious approach with their franchise quarterback.
Brissett Steps In
For Brissett, this opportunity carries additional significance as he faces his former team. The 32-year-old veteran played for the Colts from 2017-2020, making this matchup particularly meaningful on a personal level.
Last season with the New England Patriots, Brissett went 1-4 as a starter, throwing for 826 yards with two touchdowns and one interception. His most recent start came just over a year ago on October 6, 2024, in a 15-10 loss to the Miami Dolphins, where he completed 18 of 34 passes for 160 yards.
While Brissett brings extensive experience having played for six different teams throughout his career, his insertion into the lineup likely lowers the Cardinals’ offensive ceiling. The veteran can distribute effectively to Arizona’s top targets like rookie receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. and tight end Trey McBride, but the explosive plays that Murray provides with his dual-threat ability will be missed.
Cardinals’ Mounting Challenges
Murray’s potential absence compounds what has already been a frustrating season for Arizona. The Cardinals have suffered three consecutive heartbreaking losses by a combined five points, including the stunning collapse against Tennessee where they blew a 21-3 lead.
The team is also dealing with significant injuries in the backfield. Starting running back James Conner was lost for the season with an ankle injury in Week 3, while backup Trey Benson was placed on injured reserve after suffering a knee injury in Week 4. Michael Carter has stepped up to handle the bulk of the rushing duties.
Through five games this season, Murray has posted a 68.3 completion percentage while throwing for 962 yards, six touchdowns, and three interceptions. He has also contributed 173 rushing yards and one touchdown on the ground.
Looking Ahead
The Cardinals face a daunting task against an Indianapolis team that enters with a 4-1 record and boasts the NFL’s second-highest scoring offense. Arizona desperately needs to halt their three-game losing streak to remain competitive in the NFC West.
If Murray needs extended time to recover, the Cardinals have a favorable schedule ahead with a home game against Green Bay in Week 7 followed by their Week 8 bye. This could provide the additional healing time Murray needs to return at full strength.
The Cardinals and Colts are set to kick off at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, with Brissett likely under center for Arizona as they attempt to turn their season around.
