Mike LaFleur Announces Unexpected Carson Beck Decision on Tuesday

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Mike LaFleur Announces Unexpected Carson Beck Decision on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Aug 5, 2026 7:04 AM ET

Mike LaFleur's decision on Tuesday to start Carson Beck for the Hall of Fame Game drew a lot of attention. With Jacoby Brissett set to be rested, many expected Gardner Minshew to be the QB1. However, the Arizona Cardinals head coach will instead give the rookie a chance to prove his worth.

The franchise drafted Beck at No. 65 in the third round following his decorated collegiate career. He won two national championships as a backup QB for the Georgia Bulldogs before taking his talents to the Miami Hurricanes in January 2025.

While he will likely serve as an emergency option next season, the 23-year-old could turn heads with a strong performance.

Carson Beck will start at QB for the Cardinals in Thursday's Hall of Fame game, according to coach Mike LaFleur. pic.twitter.com/FGnYYv8892
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) August 4, 2026

The Cardinals also have 2024 undrafted free agent Kedon Slovis in their quarterback room. Beck will compete with him with the objective of climbing the QB depth chart. However, analysts view Beck ahead of Slovis, given the former's college résumé and draft status. Arizona could also give Beck a few opportunities as the upcoming season progresses.

The Florida native will face veteran quarterback Kenny Pickett on Thursday, who is set to make his Carolina Panthers debut. The franchise signed Pickett to a one-year, $4 million contract on March 11 after he appeared in six games for the Las Vegas Raiders in 2025.

Beck has an early shot to show that he can run an NFL team's offense. The opportunity will also allow him to showcase what he has learned in training camp under LeFleur and how much he understands the Cardinals' system.

Kickoff is set for 8 p.m. ET at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium in Canton, Ohio.

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

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