The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly closing in on a decision regarding their next head coach. Following the dismissal of Jonathan Gannon on January 5, the team has been actively interviewing candidates for nearly a month, with the search now narrowing down to two primary contenders.
As one of only two teams still seeking a head coach, the Cardinals have explored nearly 20 candidates. Many have either accepted positions elsewhere or have lost favor among insiders. The Cardinals are particularly interested in Klint Kubiak, the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, who is also scheduled to interview with the Las Vegas Raiders. Additionally, the team recently hosted Mike LaFleur, the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, for a two-day visit earlier this week.
Insider sources have indicated that if they had to make a prediction, it would likely see Kubiak heading to Las Vegas while LaFleur takes over in Arizona. “If I was a betting man, and I am not, that we”re going to see Klint Kubiak in Las Vegas and we”re going to see Mike LaFleur in Arizona,” said one insider. Another insider, Albert Breer, echoed this sentiment, calling it a realistic scenario.
With eight other NFL teams already having made head coaching hires, the Cardinals find themselves in a challenging position, as many elite and established candidates are no longer available. The organization is in a situation where they must take a significant risk to improve their prospects. LaFleur, who has extensive coaching experience under respected figures like Sean McVay and Kyle Shanahan, presents a compelling option. Despite a rocky start to his play-calling tenure with the New York Jets, there is optimism that a more talented roster in Arizona could lead to better results.
LaFleur”s familiarity with the NFC West, where the Cardinals struggled last season, adds to his appeal. While selecting a coach can be a gamble, the Cardinals may find that they have no other choice given the current landscape of available candidates.
Donnie Druin, who covers the Cardinals for Sports Illustrated, has been with the organization since 2018 and has a strong background in sports journalism. His insights into the coaching search provide valuable context for fans and analysts alike as the Cardinals look to solidify their leadership moving forward.
