Cardinals to Appoint Rams’ LaFleur as New Head Coach
The Arizona Cardinals are preparing to bring on Mike LaFleur as their new head coach. The former Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator is set to receive a five-year contract, according to sources. This decision comes after the team had discussions with Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who is now expected to take the head coaching position with the Las Vegas Raiders following the Super Bowl.
Coaching Background of Mike LaFleur
Mike LaFleur, 38, was previously the offensive coordinator for the Rams for three seasons. He also held the same position with the New York Jets from 2021 to 2022. Notably, while LaFleur contributed to the Rams’ success, he did not call plays during his tenure. Under head coach Sean McVay, the Rams’ offense dominated the league, achieving top rankings in several categories:
- Points per game: 1st
- Total yards per game: 1st
- Total yards per play: 1st
- Passing yards per game: 1st
- First downs per game: 1st
LaFleur’s coaching pedigree is further solidified by his familial connection, as his brother, Matt LaFleur, serves as the head coach of the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Mike has experience in the NFC West, having spent time with both the Rams and the San Francisco 49ers.
Arizona Cardinals’ Recent Struggles
LaFleur steps into a challenging situation with the Cardinals, who finished the 2025 season with a dismal 3-14 record. The team is dealing with uncertainty surrounding its quarterback position, particularly regarding Kyler Murray’s future. As of now, Murray is guaranteed $39.8 million for 2025, but his status for 2026 remains unclear. If he stays with the team beyond the fifth day of the 2026 league year, his base salary of $19.5 million for 2027 becomes fully guaranteed.
Cardinals’ Performance Metrics
In addition to offensive struggles, the Cardinals’ defense ranked 27th overall last season, a decline from their rank of 21st in 2024. LaFleur’s task will be to quickly revitalize a team that possesses the third overall pick in the upcoming draft.
Expectations for LaFleur
The Cardinals’ owner, Michael Bidwill, has expressed hopes for immediate improvement, emphasizing that a turnaround should take place in the first year of LaFleur’s coaching tenure rather than the second. This expectation adds pressure as the Cardinals navigate a competitive NFC West, where all three rival teams reached the playoffs in the previous season.
As Mike LaFleur prepares to lead the Arizona Cardinals, the spotlight will be on him to exceed previous results and restore the team’s competitiveness in the league.
