The Arizona Cardinals have officially named Mike LaFleur as their new head coach, marking a significant move for the franchise. This decision was announced on Sunday and concludes a hiring process that lasted nearly four weeks. LaFleur, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, steps in to replace Jonathan Gannon, who was dismissed after a disappointing three-year tenure that resulted in a 15-36 record, including a 3-14 finish last season.
At 38 years old, LaFleur brings valuable experience to the Cardinals, having spent the past three seasons with the Rams, where he led one of the most prolific offenses in the NFL. In 2025, Los Angeles boasted the league”s top offensive unit, averaging close to 400 total yards and over 30 points per game. The Rams reached the NFC Championship game, only to fall short against the Seattle Seahawks.
The Cardinals had a firsthand look at LaFleur”s offensive prowess when they faced the Rams twice last season, during which the Rams scored a total of 82 points in two decisive victories. Prior to his stint with the Rams, LaFleur held the offensive coordinator position with the New York Jets in 2021 and 2022 and gained experience working under coach Kyle Shanahan with the San Francisco 49ers, including positions in Cleveland and Atlanta.
Inheriting a roster with promising talent, LaFleur will have the opportunity to work with players such as All-Pro tight end Trey McBride, standout receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., left tackle Paris Johnson Jr., and seasoned edge rusher Josh Sweat. Additionally, the Cardinals possess the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming draft, providing LaFleur with further opportunities to shape the team”s future.
However, the most pressing concern for LaFleur will be the status of quarterback Kyler Murray. The 28-year-old, who was the top pick in the 2019 draft, has had a tumultuous career in Arizona, making only one playoff appearance. Last season was particularly challenging for Murray, who played just five games due to a foot injury, throwing for 962 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions. He is currently in the midst of a five-year contract worth $230.5 million, which runs through 2028.
Backup quarterback Jacoby Brissett took over the starting role, completing the last 12 games of the season with 3,366 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and eight interceptions, though he managed to secure only one victory during that stretch. LaFleur faces the daunting task of revitalizing the Cardinals in a highly competitive NFC West division, which was regarded as the strongest in football last season. The Cardinals” total of 14 losses last year exceeded the combined losses of the Rams, Seahawks, and 49ers, all of whom advanced to the division round of the playoffs, with the Seahawks competing for the Super Bowl on February 8.
