Cardinals Hire Rams OC Mike LaFleur as New Head Coach – 2026 NFL Carousel
The Arizona Cardinals have filled their head coaching vacancy, turning to Mike LaFleur, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. This move concludes a search following the firing of Jonathan Gannon after a challenging 3-14 season, and represents a significant shift for a franchise that has struggled in recent years.
A Proven Offensive Mind
LaFleur brings a decade of NFL coaching experience to Arizona, most recently serving as Sean McVay’s top offensive lieutenant in Los Angeles for the past three years. Prior to his time with the Rams, he held positions with the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, and New York Jets. He is also the younger brother of Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur.
Offensive Success in Los Angeles
The Rams’ offense flourished under LaFleur, highlighted by quarterback Matthew Stafford’s standout performance. Stafford led the league in passing touchdowns (46), passing yards (4,707), and touchdown-to-interception ratio (46-8) – a feat only previously accomplished by Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers in a single season. Wide receiver Davante Adams led the league with 14 receiving touchdowns, while Puka Nacua topped the NFL with 129 receptions and 107.2 receiving yards per game.
LaFleur inherits a Cardinals team that has been among the NFL’s least successful in recent seasons. Arizona has suffered at least 13 losses in three of the last four years, and holds a combined record of 19-49 since 2022, tied with the Tennessee Titans for the worst in the league during that span.
Building Blocks in Arizona
Despite the recent struggles, LaFleur will have promising offensive weapons at his disposal. Tight end Trey McBride enjoyed a breakout season, recording 126 receptions for 1,239 yards and 11 touchdowns. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., a former No. 4 overall pick, has also shown considerable potential, with 103 receptions for 1,493 yards and 12 touchdowns in his first 29 career games. Michael Wilson also provides a reliable receiving threat.
The Quarterback Question
A key question facing LaFleur in Arizona revolves around the quarterback position. Kyler Murray played only five games in 2025 due to a foot injury, with Jacoby Brissett filling in as his replacement. While Murray remains under contract through at least 2027, his recent performance – ranking 26th in win percentage and 29th in yards per attempt among qualifying quarterbacks since 2022 – raises questions about his future with the team. The Cardinals haven’t reached the postseason since 2015, winning a playoff game since 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mike LaFleur?
Mike LaFleur is a football coach who was most recently the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams. He has over a decade of NFL coaching experience, including stints with the Browns, Falcons, 49ers, and Jets.
Why did the Cardinals fire Jonathan Gannon?
Jonathan Gannon was fired after the Cardinals finished the 2025 season with a 3-14 record. The team has struggled significantly in recent years, with a record of 19-49 since 2022.
What are the Cardinals’ biggest challenges moving forward?
The Cardinals face uncertainty at the quarterback position, with Kyler Murray’s future with the team in question. They will need to determine the best path forward at quarterback to build a competitive team.
Will LaFleur’s offensive expertise translate to success in Arizona, and can he resolve the ongoing questions surrounding the Cardinals’ quarterback situation?