The Arizona Cardinals are at a crossroads, and the football world is watching. With the team's head coaching position still vacant, the pressure is mounting to find the right leader to turn things around. But here's where it gets intriguing: Mike LaFleur, the Rams' offensive coordinator, has emerged as a frontrunner for the job, and the Cardinals have scheduled a second interview with him. Could this be the move that reshapes Arizona's future?
As of January 27, 2026, the Cardinals are one of just three NFL teams yet to hire a head coach. According to Connor Hughes of SNY, LaFleur remains the top contender for the role. With the Rams' season concluding on Sunday, LaFleur is now free to engage with interested teams, making him a central figure in the coaching carousel. Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports that LaFleur will meet in person with the Cardinals on January 26 and 27, a significant step in the hiring process.
But this is the part most people miss: LaFleur isn’t the only candidate in the running. A Saturday report highlighted him alongside former Falcons head coach Raheem Morris and Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile as the leading contenders. LaFleur has also interviewed with the Raiders, one of four teams still seeking a head coach. The competition is fierce, and the Cardinals' decision will have far-reaching implications.
Arizona's situation is particularly challenging. After firing Jonathan Gannon on 'Black Monday,' ending his three-year tenure, the team has struggled to attract top talent. Despite winning eight games in 2024, the Cardinals collapsed in 2025, finishing with a dismal 3-14 record after a nine-game losing streak. The next head coach will face an uphill battle, needing to make critical staffing decisions, including hiring a new offensive coordinator to replace Drew Petzing. Is LaFleur the right man for the job, or will the Cardinals look elsewhere?
At 38, LaFleur has never held a head coaching position at the college or NFL level. However, his experience as the Jets' offensive coordinator in 2021 and 2022, followed by his non-play-calling role with the Rams, has positioned him as a top candidate. His offensive expertise contrasts sharply with Gannon's defensive background, potentially offering a fresh approach for Arizona.
And this is where it gets controversial: While LaFleur’s lack of head coaching experience might raise eyebrows, his connection to his brother, Packers head coach Matt LaFleur, could be a double-edged sword. Does this familial tie give him an edge, or will it invite unfair comparisons? Weigh in below—do you think Mike LaFleur is the best choice for the Cardinals, or should they explore other options?
Here’s a closer look at the Cardinals' head coaching search, via PFR’s HC Search Tracker:
- Joe Brady (Bills OC): In-person interview scheduled.
- Thomas Brown (Patriots TE Coach): Interview requested.
- Matt Burke (Texans DC): Interviewed.
- Anthony Campanile (Jaguars DC): Second interview conducted on 1/22; considered a leading candidate.
- Jeff Hafley (Packers DC): Interviewed on 1/14.
- John Harbaugh (Former Ravens HC): Contacted.
- Vance Joseph (Broncos DC): Interviewed on 1/10; considered a strong candidate.
- Klint Kubiak (Seahawks OC): Interviewed on 1/10.
- Mike LaFleur (Rams OC): Second interview scheduled for 1/26-27; leading candidate.
- Jesse Minter (Chargers DC): Interviewed on 1/13.
- Raheem Morris (Former Falcons HC): Interviewed; leading candidate.
- Matt Nagy (Chiefs OC): Interviewed on 1/9.
- Robert Saleh (49ers DC): Interviewed on 1/15.
- Chris Shula (Rams DC): Interviewed on 1/16.
- Arthur Smith (Steelers OC): Interview requested.
- Anthony Weaver (Dolphins DC): Second interview scheduled for 1/26.
The Cardinals' decision will shape their future, but the question remains: Who will step up to lead this team out of the shadows? Share your thoughts in the comments—is Mike LaFleur the answer, or is there a better fit out there?
