Cardinals hidden gem has emerged in 2026 preseason

IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Cardinals hidden gem has emerged in 2026 preseason

Originally posted on Burn City Sports
By Tanner Tortorella | Last updated Aug 14, 2026 6:37 PM ET

GLENDALE – With all the excitement and attention on the new coaching staff and rookies this summer, one player under the radar has emerged as a certified gem through the Arizona Cardinals first two preseason games. Head coach Mike LaFleur’s offense has been humming so far, with an average of 28.5 points and 396.5 total yards in those games. Credit should be given all around, but wide receiver Jalen Brooks has been in the forefront of the team’s success.

The former seventh-round pick had 99 receiving yards in his first game, and in Thursday’s matchup snagged six catches for 52 yards and a touchdown to give Arizona the lead it never surrendered. And if that wasn’t good enough, he knows how to celebrate in style.

Brooks first touchdown of preseason:

Gardner Minshew threw a dime. Jalen Brooks caught it and celebrated.

Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/2vlsdSFK6A

— NFL (@NFL) August 14, 2026

Brooks joined the roster last year, signing with the Cardinals’ practice squad late in October. After injuries started to pile up, Brooks was promoted to the 53-man roster and appeared in five games. The 26-year-old was mostly used as a returner. His limited reps lined up at wide receiver led to only three catches for 51 yards during his 2025 campaign. The lackluster production made this preseason a fight for his NFL life, and he’s thriving.

The 6’2 wideout surpassed his receiving yard total from last season in both games so far because of his stellar route running. Brooks has created separation with ease on short form routes on curls and slants that had made him an easy target for whoever is under center.

Despite his impressive showing, earning a roster spot for next season won’t be easy. The top three wide receivers are set with Marvin Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson and Kendrick Bourne holding those spots in that order. The next two spots will be fought between Brooks, Xavier Weaver and Simi Fehoko. The latter two has more history and stocks with the franchise, but LaFleur’s arrival seems to minimize that impact.

If Brooks continues this level of play, his spot on the 53-man roster will be undeniable and truly unlocks another level for this Cardinals offense.

This article first appeared on Burn City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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