Cardinals Training Camp Takeaways: Jacoby Brissett Struggles and Trey Benson's Absence

Since his return to the Arizona Cardinals' first-team offense, quarterback Jacoby Brissett has turned in his most challenging day of training camp practice, raising questions as the team prepares for the upcoming season. As of August 3, 2026, the first-team offense has struggled to find consistency, highlighted by a down day from the veteran signal-caller.
Head coach Mike LaFleur had previously called Friday’s training camp practice Arizona’s best yet, but the weekend showing told a different story. The unit struggled to establish a rhythm, signaling that there is still significant work to be done before the preseason opener.
Brissett's Off Day and Defensive Standouts
Brissett could not find a consistent rhythm throughout 11-on-11 work, ending the day with a pair of interceptions and a handful of errant throws after not turning the ball over once since returning to the first-team unit. While it is still early in camp, the performance was not ideal, especially following his reworked contract that now positions him as the team's starter.
On the defensive side, inside linebacker Cody Simon capitalized on the quarterback's struggles, snagging one of Brissett’s throws intended for Marvin Harrison Jr., marking Simon's second interception of the camp. Cornerback Sean Murphy-Bunting came down with the other interception.
Despite the turnovers, the biggest positive for Brissett was his continued connection with tight end Trey McBride. The duo linked up numerous times, providing a reliable target amidst the offensive line's ongoing struggles to generate movement up front.
Official Social Media Coverage
Tyler Drake (@Tdrake4sports) on X/Twitter:
Jacoby Brissett has two INTs on the day. Cody Simon now up to two INTs this camp.
https://arizonasports.com/nfl/arizona-cardinals/training-camp-takeaways-jacoby-brissett-struggles
Jeremiyah Love Takes the Reins
In the backfield, rookie running back Jeremiyah Love was officially listed as RB2 on the first depth chart, behind Tyler Allgeier. However, recent practices have told a different story. Love, not Allgeier, was out there first with the first-team offense before giving way, with the two splitting series during 11-on-11 work. This rotation feels closer to what fans might see when the regular season arrives.
The Mystery of Trey Benson
While second-year defensive lineman Walter Nolen III returned to the field after a minor knee issue, the biggest question mark belongs to running back Trey Benson. Benson, who participated in Friday’s practice but sat out team drills, was nowhere to be seen on Sunday.
Head coach Mike LaFleur did not mention Benson as someone dealing with an injury before practice. With Love, Allgeier, and James Conner expected to lead the room, Benson’s RB4 status on the first depth chart solidifies concerns about his roster spot. Whether he is dealing with an undisclosed injury or is a candidate for a trade or release, his presence moving forward will be a key storyline to watch.
Depth Chart Standouts
Further down the depth chart, linebacker Eku Leota continued to make his presence felt, subbing in with the first-team defense and immediately applying pressure on Brissett. Wide receiver Ihmir Smith-Marsette also stood out as the next man up in both return games.
Additionally, rookie Chase Bisontis is getting valuable first-team reps, stepping in sparingly for guard Isaac Seumalo. While he has a long way to go, these early opportunities will be crucial for building his confidence as the Cardinals finalize their roster for the 2026 season.




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