Ranking available free agent QBs the Arizona Cardinals can sign

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 01: Noah Fant #87 and Drew Lock #2 of the Seattle Seahawks prepare to take the field against the New York Jets at Lumen Field on January 01, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - JANUARY 01: Noah Fant #87 and Drew Lock #2 of the Seattle Seahawks prepare to take the field against the New York Jets at Lumen Field on January 01, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
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Arizona Cardinals
Dec 24, 2022; Santa Clara, California, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Taylor Heinicke (4) celebrates after a touchdown during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports

3 – Taylor Heinicke

Career Statistics – Record: 12-12-1, Completion Percentage: 63.9%, Yards: 5,745, Touchdowns: 34, Interceptions: 24, Rating: 85.7

If there is ever a surefire backup in the NFL who could play well in spurts, it’s Taylor Heinicke. The Arizona Cardinals, if they’re looking for experience, should look long and hard at the man who started 24 games for the Washington Commanders over the last two seasons.

Heinicke is the kind of player who defines the game manager role, and he likely won’t elevate anyone’s talent. But he also won’t hinder it or slow the team down, something we saw far too often from Colt McCoy (sans the game against the L.A. Rams), Trace McSorley, and David Blough.

2 – Jacoby Brissett

Career Statistics – Record: 18-30, Completion Percentage: 61.1%, Yards: 10,350, Touchdowns: 48, Interceptions: 23, Rating: 84.4

Jacoby Brissett is another quarterback the Arizona Cardinals should have their eye on if they’re looking for someone with both experience from a career standpoint, and experience in what Drew Petzing will most likely run. Brissett’s numbers don’t jump off the charts, but he’s also started 10 or more games in three of his seven seasons.

He may be a career journeyman best suited for a backup role, but it’s clear that numerous coaches have put their trust in Brissett if they need someone to carry the team for a significant portion of the season. And since he knows Petzing, don’t be surprised if the Cardinals snag the veteran with Kyler Murray on the mend.

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