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[Arizona Cardinals]

Get to know new Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur

Jun 3, 2025; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur at press conference during organized team activities at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

It is official, the Arizona Cardinals new head coach is Mike LaFleur.

Arizona Cardinals to hire Mike LaFleur as new head coach per reports

The Cardinals fanbase and a lot of media outlets have expressed interest in hiring an offensive-minded guy to head the franchise instead of going with a coach to lead the defense. Currently, Arizona’s defense is in pretty good shape and certainly needs a piece here and there, but a qualified DC could come in and set up shop rather quickly with the talent on that side of the ball.

The Rams were this year’s NFC Championship Game and had a great showing against a very good Seattle Seahawks defense.

That is the result of LaFleur’s efforts. But who is he? What are his qualifications?

Beginnings​

LaFleur grew up in the small town of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, nestled in the bullseye of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. To know Mike LaFleur, you have to be acquainted with his family.

His parents are Kristi and Denny LaFleur. His father, Denny, played linebacker at Central Michigan, which won the D-2 National Championship in 1974, while his mother was one of the team’s cheerleaders. Denny held the school’s record for most career tackles.

Denny then transitioned into teaching and became an assistant football coach for his alma mater. That lasted 20 years. Kristi was a physical education and health teacher who coached track and cheerleading. At Central Michigan, Denny had coached practically every position on defense. The couple has now been married for 51 years.

Kristi’s father, Bob Barringer, was also a football coach at Loy Norrix High School in Kalamazoo, Michigan. So, football was more than just a sport in her family. Barringer just happened to be a Central Michigan fan. Kristi and Deeny got married in their senior year at CMU.

Mike’s brother is Matt, currently the head coach of the Green Bay Packers. He played quarterback for most of his life and went to Western Michigan and then Saginaw Valley State. After going undrafted in the 2003 NFL draft, Matt signed with the Omaha Beef of the “National Indoor Football League.” The following season, he played for the Billings Outlaws of the same league.

Growing up, brothers Matt and Mike, who is the younger sibling, competed in the AAU basketball circuit. But their lives were football with their dad as a coach and their mom coaching the cheer squad. Both brothers were great kids to coach because they had such an intensity about the way they played.

Both boys knew that one day they would also be football coaches.

Matt got in the door when his father called the new CMU head coach, Brian Kelly, and asked if he needed any grad assistants. There, he met another grad assistant, Robert Saleh, who is now the head coach of the Tennessee Titans after building up the San Francisco 49ers’ defense.

When Matt became the OC with the Rams and Mike was hired as the 49ers WR coach, these two teams played each other twice a year both being NFC West Division members. Kristi LaFleur had a difficult time of which team to pull for when the two clubs met on the gridiron.

So, she devised a system. Kristi wore t-shirts she designed that appeared to be authentic NFL gear. The shirts read on the front, “The San Angeles Ram-ers.”

Mike’s path​

Mike LaFleur was also a quarterback, but played three sports in high school. He then played football for Elmhurst University, located in nearby Illinois. In addition to playing quarterback, he would also line up at safety and was elected team captain.

After graduation, he became an offensive assistant with Elmhurst. The following year, he became the QB coach for St. Joseph’s (IN) College and then was elevated to their OC for the following two seasons. In 2013, he accepted the OC position at Davidson, which was a D-1 school.

In 2014, he interviewed and was hired by the Cleveland Browns as an offensive coaching intern under Browns OC Kyle Shanahan. What was the connection with the Browns and Mike?

His brother Matt was then the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Redskins and before that had been on the coaching staff of the Houston Texans. Both stints overlapped with when Kyle Shanahan was the offensive coordinator for those teams. Shanahan knew of Mike through his brother and felt they could have the same type of chemistry on the staff.

Suddenly, Mike was in the door of the NFL. When Shanahan left Cleveland the following year to become the OC with the Atlanta Falcons, Mike followed him as an offensive assistant for two seasons. In 2017, Shanahan was named head coach of the 49ers. As he was filling out his staff, he hired Mike as his passing game coordinator and WR coach. After two years, the franchise hired another guy to fill the WR coaching position so that Mike could focus solely on his duties as passing game coordinator.

During Mike’s time with San Fran, their DC was Saleh. He was hired as the head coach of the New York Jets, and Saleh hired Mike as his OC. Mike LaFleur was finally an offensive coordinator in the NFL.

Rams success​

Saleh was fired during the 2022 season. Usually, this means that after the year is completed, the new head coach will want to bring in his own guys to fill out his staff, which is what happened.

Welcome to LA, Mike LaFleur! pic.twitter.com/MqdLdh39Yj

— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) January 27, 2023

Two weeks after losing his job with the Jets, he was interviewed and then hired to become the new OC with the Rams under head coach Sean McVay. He has been the OC for Los Angeles for three seasons now.

The Rams ranked #1 in total offense this year. That speaks for itself.

2025 NFL offensive rankings for Los Angeles Rams:

• Total offensive yards per game average: #1 (394.6)
• Passing yards: #2 (4,707)
• Passing TDs: #1 (46)
• Fewest interceptions: #4 (8)
• Passing first down conversions: #2 (236)
• Rushing yards: #7 (2,152)
• Rushing TDs: #16 (15)
• Fewest rushing fumbles: #12 (5)
• Rushing first down conversions: #6 (126)

Both brothers have been the OC with the Rams – Matt in 2017 and Mike from 2023-present. If Mike is hired to run the Cardinals, they would become the second brother head coaching duo in the NFL, joining John and Jim Harbaugh. There have been other brother coaching combinations, such as Rex and Rob Ryan, and Jon and Jay Gruden, but not two brothers who have been head coaches.

Mike’s offensive scheme is deeply rooted in the Shanahan/McVay tree. This emphasizes a strong outside run game. His offense also has simplicity for the quarterback to make early, easy decisions. Rams QB Matt Stafford is annually mentioned in the league MVP conversation because of this scheme geared to establish consistency for the signalcaller.

A lot of usage of jet sweeps, RPOs, and flood routes allows the offense to have effective passing plays and leverage the rushing attack. There is also a lot of motion and pre-snap movement. Motions are needed to gain the numbers advantage on the perimeter and create better blocking angles. Mike uses a teacher’s mentality in that he teaches core concepts so well that players don’t have to think much about what to do because it becomes instinctive.

Now, to accomplish most of his offensive techniques, he requires an excellent offensive line group and a competent quarterback who has the ability to run on occasion. It is a common occurrence to begin plays in an empty set. Both of these positions will need to be addressed immediately.

The wide zone run game will need to be effective and give the offense some needed help in protection on the interior. Again, another position that will need to be solved is the running back room. The Cardinals will require a dynamic running back who is capable of breaking off the big runs on the perimeter.

Mike married Lauren Ball in 2010. According to her Facebook page, she studied at Elmhurst College, went to Mt. Pleasant High School, and is from Mount Pleasant, Michigan. The couple has two children.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...new-arizona-cardinals-head-coach-mike-lafleur

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Former Cardinals coach Bruce Arians to have surgery

TAMPA, FLORIDA - JANUARY 01: Tampa Bay Buccaneers senior advisor to the general manager Bruce Arians looks on before the game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Carolina Panthers at Raymond James Stadium on January 01, 2023 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) | Getty Images

If you are a person who prays, former Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians needs your help. He is set to have open heart surgery on Friday, February 6, in Philadelphia, just two days before the Super Bowl.

He made the announcement on the “Today” show with Rob Gronkowski, who played for Arians with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Arians and Gronk are featured on a Novartis Super Bowl commercial for this year’s big game regarding prostate cancer screening.

RELATED: SUPER BOWL LX PREVIEW

Every year when NFL coaches are fired, Arians’ name comes up as a possible replacement. But the former Cardinals coach is now 73-years old and has had plenty of health issues. He survived prostate cancer in 2007 when he was the OC of the Pittsburgh Steelers. While head coach for Arizona in 2013, Arians had cancerous cells in his nose removed. Three years later, he was hospitalized twice. The first was during the preseason due to diverticulitis. Then, in the middle of the season, he experienced chest pains. During the same season, renal cell carcinoma was found on Arians’ kidney to which he had surgery to remove a portion of his kidney.

Today, Arians is semi-retired and is semi-employed with Tampa Bay as a senior football consultant. His part-time job duties include attending meetings on a daily basis and watching practices, then giving advice as needed.

His coaching career spanned 46 years, during which he worked for four college programs and seven NFL clubs. Arians was the head coach with several teams: Temple University (1983-1988), Indianapolis Colts (2012, interim), Cardinals (2013-2017), and Buccaneers (2019-2021).

In 2020, the Bucs went 11-5-0 and defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 31-9 in Super Bowl LV with Tom Brady as their new quarterback. With that game, Arians holds the record for the oldest head coach to win a Super Bowl at age 68. He also won a pair of Super Bowl rings with the Steelers. He was the team’s WR coach in Super Bowl XL and its OC in Super Bowl XLIII.

In 2015, Arizona won the NFC West Division with a sterling 13-3-0 record, then defeated the Green Bay Packers 26-20 in overtime in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, but lost to the Carolina Panthers 49-15 in the NFC Championship Game.

Arians was named NFL Coach of the Year in 2012 (Colts) and 2014 (Cardinals). He went 49-30-1 during his five seasons as head coach of the Cardinals.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-cardinals-coach-bruce-arians-to-have-surgery

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Tennessee Titans to hire Gus Bradley as defensive coordinator

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 30: Assistant head coach of defense Gus Bradley of the San Francisco 49ers looks on prior to a game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field on November 30, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images) | Diamond Images/Getty Images

A name that had been bandied about as a potential defensive coordinator for new head coach Mike LaFleur was Gus Bradley.

49ers assistant head coach Gus Bradley has emerged as a top defensive coordinator candidate for the Arizona Cardinals, per @AlbertBreer. pic.twitter.com/dWb5bFOzAS

— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) February 1, 2026

Well, that idea is over as Bradley, after being spurned as the defensive coordinator by the San Francisco 49ers, he has decided to follow Robert Saleh to the Tennessee Titans and be their defensive coordinator.

Source: The Titans are working to hire 49ers assistant Gus Bradley as their new defensive coordinator. Big win for Robert Saleh bringing Bradley aboard.

— Albert Breer (@AlbertBreer) February 2, 2026

This is an interesting decision by Bradley, but does it speak volumes about the Arizona Cardinals, the team and the franchise and where they are at?

To put this in perspective, Gus Bradley had (by all accounts) two choices

– DC for the Cardinals, where he'd call plays for a rookie offensive minded HC

– DC for the Titans, where he won't call plays for a retread defensive minded HC

That speaks volumes about the Cardinals https://t.co/dQTAZ8JluB

— David Howman (@_DH44_) February 2, 2026

My good friend, Kyle Posey was happy to get away from Bradley and felt like it was a dodged bullet.

Gus Bradley defenses from 2017 through 2024 using EPA, Success Rate, DVOA, 3rd downs, and in the red zone. pic.twitter.com/htvtTWMJRO

— Kyle Posey (@KP_Show) January 29, 2026

So, maybe this was a blessing in disguise of not getting a defensive coordinator that maybe the game has passed him by a little bit and the Cardinals will be forced to hire someone potentially better?

Although, it does beg a lot of questions of why you would rather just be a defensive coordinator in name and not in execution?

Is the Cardinals situation that bad? Or does Bradley just not trust himself enough?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-to-hire-gus-bradley-as-defensive-coordinator

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Senior Bowl interview: S Bud Clark

Jan 31, 2026; Mobile, AL, USA; American wide receiver Aaron Anderson (2) of LSU runs past National safety Bud Clark (21) of TCU during the first half of the 2026 Senior Bowl at University of South Alabama, Hancock Whitney Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images | Vasha Hunt-Imagn Images

The Arizona Cardinals will need some help during the offseason to help the defense. Does the defensive line need a body or two? Is the linebacker room good? What about the defensive backfield?

The Cardinals’ safety room seems to be a good group. Budda Baker made his eighth Pro Bowl this past season. Jalen Thompson had a Pro Football Focus grade this past season of 68.7, but with zero interceptions and a hefty 95 total tackles. Seventh-round draft pick Kitan Crawford ended his rookie season on IR, and the jury is still out on Dadrion Taylor-Demerson and Joey Blount.

RELATED: OG KEYLAN RUTLEDGE INTERVIEW

One prize defender came out of the Senior Bowl this week, with safety Bud Clark out of TCU. He was everywhere. During the practice week, this game only allowed some medium hitting in two practice sessions, and they had to tell Clark to tone it down. Several times.

Senior Bowl Day 2 standouts – National team:

• Texas Tech LB Jacob Rodriguez
• Texas Tech ED Romello Height
• John Carroll WR Tyren Montgomery
• TCU SAF Bud Clark
• Clemson ED TJ Parker
• Texas Tech iDL Lee Hunter
• Western Michigan ED Nadame Tucker
• NC State ED Cian…

— Ryan Fowler (@_RyanFowler_) January 28, 2026

Clark is known for going up against elite receivers during his college career. It was no different at the Senior Bowl as he harassed receivers going deep every practice session. His ball production jumps off the tape. He is a confident run defender and has no issue coming down to support, stopping the run game. Natural leader and has controlled aggression.

He had a very good week in Mobile, which will elevate his stock. Clark came into this game as a high fourth-round selection, and now has jumped at least one round and would not surprise anyone if he heard his name called at the bottom of Round 2.

Clark got a new nickname during practice week at the Senior Bowl: Stingy. This is a guy who is always a fan favorite and is very approachable.

Revenge of the Birds staff writer Barry Shuck was at the Senior Bowl this week. He interviewed Clark during the practice week. Clark is a two-time Second Team All-Big 12 member.

S Bud Clark (6’-1”, 185 pounds)​

TCU​

Projection: Round 3​

———————————————————————————–

Shuck: You have consistently shown in the 1-on-1 drills some smooth shadowing with receivers and tight ends. What is your technique?

Clark: I use my quickness to stay with the faster receivers. Tight ends are tricky because they are always taller and weigh more than any safety. They will slam you right away and stick out their shoulder or hip to push you aside. I have to get up under them, or they will use their girth on passing downs. I have to be just as physical, or else they will do this all game on you. You have to be just as physical. I can jump routes with my anticipation and use my size to press receivers off their routes.

@atozsportsfilmroom
Bud Clark says “I’LL TAKE THAT” #tcu #interception #fyp #seniorbowl #hornedfrogs

♬ original sound – A to Z Sports Film Room

Shuck: People who know defense in college football were already aware of you before you got here at the Senior Bowl. This week, you balled out. How do you describe your game?

Clark: I have plenty of experience and have played 61 games at TCU. I am durable and seem to be in the right places in order to make a play. For the past three years, I played every game. I love to hit, and I am good at it. My coverage skills are really good, too. I love receivers who think they are going to end up being open deep. I can rule being a zone defender. I bat down a lot of balls and have had 15 interceptions in the last four years, so I pride myself on being around the ball. In my first two practices here, I got two interceptions in two days.

Shuck: You are manned up with a receiver. How does that work for a safety?

Clark: I can walk down, I can press. I can play off and do whatever is needed of me. I am step-by-step with these receivers. I’m very versatile. And I learn fast and like to get advice from coaches and veteran players. They know. I just love to compete.

Bud Clark WHAT?! pic.twitter.com/8VoLWTF7Qo

— The Giants Report (@GiantsReport1) January 28, 2026

Shuck: This past year, you were ranked in the Top-5 safety group. What brought out the best in you this past season?

Clark: Just being able to see different things, like just small details, like back away or if I shuffle it back to me. Like being able to know the game of football. I have always been athletic, but I put that knowledge hand-in-hand, and it helped me. I think my anticipation is good.

Shuck: This past year, you were the highest-rated TCU player in the video game “College Football 25.” Did you brag about that to your teammates?

Clark: Nah, I didn’t tell them. They told me. I try not to throw it in their faces. That 92 rating was amazing. I’m not going to fanboy right now, but I felt like it was pretty great. I go home, and my two-year old son looks at me like dad he knows who it is. I’m going to tell my son all his life. It’s pretty cool. The game is realistic, and there are different details from last year’s.

Shuck: How do you handle the adversity of losing a few games in a row?

Clark: We just go back to work. Start with team meetings and make sure everybody talks about it and hits straight. Make sure nobody don’t point any fingers, and everybody stays together. I am one of the team leaders. If I see negativity, if I hear anything wrong, if it’s not great positivity, don’t say it. Keep it to yourself. Go tell your family members about it because we will fix this on our own.

Shuck: What will NFL coaches and scouts be saying about you when they leave the Senior Bowl?

Clark: That I am a hustler and will do my job. I can play box, free, strong, or come down and play linebacker or blitz. I am a hitter and known as a ball hawk. I love coming down and taking down a running back. That is why I am here.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/arizona-cardinals-draft/87441/senior-bowl-interview-s-bud-clark

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals add offense in newest two-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft from ESPN

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 06: Germie Bernard #5 of the Alabama Crimson Tide celebrates after running the ball for a touchdown against the Georgia Bulldogs during the fourth quarter in the 2025 SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 06, 2025 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) | Getty Images

For the Arizona Cardinals, fixing their team is not just about one draft, but getting the draft right and getting high impact players is going to be a key to fixing their team.

Matt Miller dropped his first 2026 NFL Mock Draft on Monday, and he was brave enough to do two rounds, and for the Arizona Cardinals, it is a clear building block draft, where they should get better because of it.

From E$PN:

3. Arizona Cardinals​

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Mauigoa to the Cardinals is one of the most seamless fits in the first round. Arizona must shore up its offensive line and needs a long-term starter at right tackle opposite Paris Johnson Jr. The 6-foot-6, 315-pound Mauigoa was a three-year starter at Miami and allowed only two sacks in 16 games during the Hurricanes’ run to the national title game last season. The Cardinals are desperate for that type of consistency, with 36-year-old Kelvin Beachum starting 11 games in 2025 and no long-term answer on the roster.

There are questions about quarterback Kyler Murray’s future, but like with the Jets above, there are no solutions at QB in this part of the draft beyond Mendoza. So the Cardinals should sit tight and go OT.

34. Arizona Cardinals​

Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama

Marvin Harrison Jr.’s first two seasons haven’t quite gone to plan, and the Cardinals don’t have much at receiver behind him and Michael Wilson. Bernard has elite ability to make plays after the catch and is a dynamic player who is capable of lining up all over the alignment — including in the backfield, in the slot and at X receiver.

Interesting to see a wide receiver in round two, but bringing in an “offensive guru” they may want more weapons on their plate, especially with what they have coming up in terms of contracts at the wide receiver position.

Adding Mauigoa and Bernard would be a nice haul, what would you think?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...ewest-two-round-2026-nfl-mock-draft-from-espn

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Grade the Arizona Cardinals hire of Mike LaFleur

SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 02:The Vince Lombardi Trophy is framed by the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots helmets during Super Bowl LX Opening Night at San Jose McEnery Convention Center on February 02, 2026 in San Jose, California. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cardinals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

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The Arizona Cardinals now have their new head coach in Mike LaFleur, so we have to ask, how would you grade that hiring?

Now, how you feel about it may be swayed by what we all agree was a nice change of pace for a coaching press conference, but also he was truly impressive in his introduction.

Now, for the business at hand, more importantly who do you have winning the Super Bowl LX this Sunday?

The Seattle Seahawks are 4.5-point favorites heading into that game, a lot of that based on their performance and who they have played compared to the New England Patriots run, and who they have had to face.

It is hard to decide who you are cheering for, but I guess we all would agree that we don’t want the Seahawks to win, however the Patriots are annoying so no one wants them to win.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...de-the-arizona-cardinals-hire-of-mike-lafleur

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals request interviews with a number of prospective defensive cooridnators

CINCINNATI, OH - NOVEMBER 12: Houston Texans Defensive Backs Coach Dino Vasso looks on during the NFL football game between the Houston Texans and the Cincinnati Bengals on November 12, 2023, at Paycor Stadium in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images) | Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

The Arizona Cardinals are busy.

After hiring Mike LaFleur on Sunday, introducing him to the valley on Tuesday, they hired a new offensive coordinator in Nathaniel Hackett on Wednesday.

To make things even more fun, they are requesting a bevy of interesting names to potentially be LaFleur’s defensive coordinator.

Here are the names we know they have requested to speak with, you’ll note one name not on the list as of now is Don “Wink” Martindale.

First, Charlie Bullen, he was the interim defensive coordinator for the New York Giants, and was with the Arizona Cardinals during Kliff Kingsbury’s time as an assistant linebackers coach and outside linebackers coach.

The #AZCardinals have requested to interview Charlie Bullen for their DC position. Bullen was an in-house candidate for the #Giants and one of the few assistants retained on John Harbaugh’s coaching staff. He also interviewed for the #Cowboys’ DC position. pic.twitter.com/eoAF0voZGc

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 4, 2026

Next up is Aubrey Pleasant, the 38-year old Pleasant has been an NFL coach for over a decade, working with the Browns, Washington, the Rams, Lions and Packers and most recently has been the defensive backs coach and defensive passing game coordinator for the Rams.

The #AZCardinals have requested #Rams assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant to interview for their DC job, source said.

Pleasant, who was a strong contender for #Chargers DC job, will interview with a former colleague in AZ. pic.twitter.com/pKIV28yOxQ

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 4, 2026

Finally, the team has requested to interview Houston Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso. The 38-year old Vasso has been a rising star with the Texans, helping the Texans secondary become the best passing defense in the NFL and helping develop their secondary.

The #AZCardinals have requested an interview with #Texans DBs coach Dino Vasso for their defensive coordinator job, source says. Veteran secondary coach gets a look for a DC job in Arizona. pic.twitter.com/SESa3o92wa

— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 4, 2026

Which of the three known candidates is your favorite?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ith-charlie-bullen-aubrey-pleasant-dino-vasso

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals hire Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 19: Offensive Coordinator Nathaniel Hackett of the New York Jets follows the action in the game between the New England Patriots and the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on September 19, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (Photo by Al Pereira/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The new staff for the Arizona Cardinals is beginning to come together, and the first name we know will be on it is an interesting one.

Tom Pelissero of NFL.com is reporting that the Arizona Cardinals are hiring Nathaniel Hackett as their offensive coordinator under Mike LaFleur.

The Cardinals are hiring Nathaniel Hackett as their offensive coordinator, sources tell The Insiders.

Hackett, 46, was the offensive coordinator for three seasons under Matt LaFleur in Green Bay. Now, he teams up with Mike LaFleur in Arizona. pic.twitter.com/y0yM9gUltQ

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 4, 2026

Hackett was in a similar role with the Green Bay Packers and LaFleur’s brother, Matt from 2019-2021 and produced good results:

• 2019 – 18th in yards 15th in points
• 2020 – 5th in yards 1st in points
• 2021 – 10th in yards 10th in points

So, in the role of offensive coordinator and not designated play caller we have seen some good things, but there are few if any that view Hackett in a positive light in the NFL, but he has a relationship with the LaFleur’s as well as… Aaron Rodgers.

Would Rodgers be a candidate to come to Arizona for a year? Would anyone want that?

What are your thoughts on the hire of Hackett as offensive coordinator?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...re-nathaniel-hackett-as-offensive-coordinator

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Larry Fitzgerald a first ballot NFL Hall of Famer

Cards XXLIII -- 02/01/2009 -- Arizona Cardinals Larry Fitzgerald (cq) celebrates after his touchdown in the 4th quarter during Super Bowl XLIII at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Rob Schumacher/The Arizona Republic) 157091 Cardsmediaday0128 Pano 2 2 | Rob Schumacher, The Arizona Republic via Imagn Content Services, LLC

One of the greatest to ever step on an NFL field will officially be enshrined in the NFL Hall of Fame in Canton, OH.

Larry Fitzgerald is a first ballot Hall of Famer for his work with the Arizona Cardinals.

Fitzgerald’s accomplishments in his time with the Arizona Cardinals:

• 1,432 receptions (2nd All-Time in NFL History)
• 17,492 yards receiving (2nd All-Time in NFL History)
• 121 receiving touchdowns (6th All-Time)
• Nine total 1,000 receiving yard seasons Tied for fourth All-Time)
• 263 Games Played
• 12.2 yards per reception
• 2x NFL Receptions Leader (2005, 2016)
• 2x NFL Receiving Touchdowns Leader (2008,2009)
• NFL Single-Postseason record in receptions (30), receiving yards (546), touchdowns (7)
• All Pro (2008) and 2nd Team All Pro (2009)
• Walter Payton Man of the Year (2016)
• NFL 100th Anniversary Team
• 11x Pro Bowler (Franchise Record)

Fitzgerald is considered one of the most consistent wide receivers in NFL history, despite having caught TD passes from the following in his career:

• Kurt Warner (48)
• Carson Palmer (29)
• Josh McCown (12)
• John Skelton (7)
• Josh Rosen (6)
• Kyler Murray (5)
• Kevin Kolb (5)
• Matt Leinart (5)
• Derek Anderson (4)
• Drew Stanton (3)
• Blaine Gabbert (2)
• Shaun King (1)
• Richard Bartel (1)
• Max Hall (1)
• Brian St. Pierre (1)
• John Navarre (1)

What a career and what an enjoyment to watch.

Larry Fitzgerald 2008 playoffs is one of the greatest we've EVER seen from a wide receiver.

In 4 games he caught 30 passes for 546 yards and SEVEN touchdowns
pic.twitter.com/7AIw7aX9Pr

— Football (@TheFBReels) January 30, 2026

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...st-ballot-nfl-hall-of-famer-arizona-cardinals

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Budda Baker named 2025 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award Winner

Feb 5, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Budda Baker on the NFL Honors Red Carpet before Super Bowl LX at Palace of Fine Arts. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker was awarded the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award.

From the team:

Arizona Cardinals safety Budda Baker has been named the winner of the 2025 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award at tonight’s NFL Honors ceremony in San Francisco, CA.

The award is presented each year to an NFL player who best demonstrates the qualities of on-field sportsmanship, including fair play, respect for the game and opponents, and integrity in competition.

This marked the third straight year Baker was a finalist for the award, which was created in honor of the late founding owner of the Pittsburgh Steelers and Pro Football Hall of Famer Art Rooney, Sr.

The winner of the NFL Sportsmanship Award is determined by a vote of current NFL players. This marks the second time a Cardinals player was named the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award winner after wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald took home the honor in the award’s inaugural season in 2014.

As the winner, Baker received a $25,000 donation from the NFL Foundation to a charity of his choice.

As aggressive on the field as any player in the league, Baker has always balanced his relentless and physical playing style with a respect for the game and his opponents. Over the last five seasons (2021-25), Baker easily led all NFL DBs with 580 total tackles while adding 4.5 sacks, 26 tackles for loss, six interceptions, 24 passes defensed, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. Despite that production and playing over 4,900 total snaps during that span, he was penalized just four times.

Baker has been voted a team captain each of the last six seasons and has also been selected him to the Pro Bowl eight times, including as a starter at safety each of the last seven years.

The other finalists in 2025 were LB Lavonte David (Tampa Bay), LB Demario Davis (New Orleans) and T Brian O’Neill (Minnesota) in the NFC, and DT DeForest Buckner (Indianapolis), DT Harrison Phillips (New York Jets), DT Zach Sieler (Miami) and LB Kyle Van Noy (Baltimore) in the AFC.

Congratulations to Baker on an outstanding award.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...ed-2025-art-rooney-sportsmanship-award-winner

 

[Zedster]

Lots of moving pieces here for the Cardinals. I'll give LaFleur a solid B+ on the hire - he impressed at the presser and has a good offensive pedigree, though obviously we'll need to see how it translates. The Hackett hire as OC is... interesting. Those Green Bay numbers were legitimately good, but his Denver stint left a bad taste. Hoping he thrives in a supporting role rather than being the main guy.

For the DC candidates, I'm most intrigued by Dino Vasso. Helping develop that Houston secondary into the best passing defense in the league is no joke. Pleasant has solid experience bouncing around good organizations too. Either of those would be fine by me.

And man, Larry Fitzgerald getting in first ballot is just right. Watching him catch touchdowns from that list of quarterbacks and still put up those numbers... that's the definition of consistency and greatness. The 2008 playoff run alone was legendary. Well deserved.

Congrats to Budda on the Rooney Award too. Eight Pro Bowls, only four penalties over five seasons while playing that physical? That's remarkable discipline.

As for the Super Bowl... ugh. Seahawks or Patriots. I guess I'm reluctantly pulling for New England just because division rival and all that. Neither outcome will feel good though.

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals look to cash in on Larry Fitzgerald Hall of Fame induction

Feb 5, 2026; San Franciso, CA, USA; Larry Fitzgerald during a press conference introducing the NFL Hall of Fame Class of 2026 at Palace of Fine Arts. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Arizona Cardinals fans are excited about the enshrinement of Larry Fitzgerald into the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and the team knows it.

So, for the low, low price of $4,750 you too can be a part of the experience.

The Arizona Cardinals are selling Hall of Fame Weekend trips.

From the team:

Now, fans looking to attend Fitzgerald’s induction weekend in Canton, Ohio can experience the historic celebration in a way that combines unmatched comfort and style with an array of exclusive offerings available nowhere else, all courtesy of Cardinals Premier Travel.

Launched in 2025, Cardinals Premier Travel offers the team’s most passionate fans an unforgettable, fully-curated getaway. The exclusive experience includes round-trip travel aboard one of the Cardinals’ Boeing 777 aircraft, along with elite hospitality, accommodations and access that create memories that will last a lifetime.

After an incredibly successful debut for the Cardinals-Cowboys Monday Night Football matchup in Dallas last November, Cardinals Premier Travel is now providing an unprecedented experience surrounding the franchise’s greatest player and his Hall of Fame enshrinement.

The three-day trip from August 6-9 features access to Thursday’s Hall of Fame game at Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium (participating teams to be determined) and Friday’s “Gold Jacket Ceremony & Dinner” in addition to a tour of the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Saturday’s itinerary includes tickets to the Grand Parade and Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony followed by exclusive access to a post-enshrinement reception honoring Fitzgerald hosted by the Cardinals.

Some more details about what the all-inclusive experience entails:

• Round-trip, private air transportation aboard a wide-body Boeing 777-200ER aircraft, identically equipped and configured as the Cardinals plane used by the team’s players and coaches
• Three-night hotel accommodations at either the Embassy Suites by Hilton or Sheraton Suites Cuyahoga Falls
• Convenient, in-city transportation once on the ground in Ohio
• Tickets for “Gold Jacket Ceremony and Dinner” featuring Fitzgerald and other members of the 2026 Class as well as past enshrinees
• Tickets for Thursday’s Hall of Fame Game (participating teams to be determined)
• Tour of the Pro Football Hall of Fame
• Tickets for the Hall of Fame’s Grand Parade
• Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement ceremony tickets
• Exclusive access to a post-enshrinement reception hosted by the team
• Custom gift bags and much, much more

Three different tiers of these all-inclusive travel packages are available – Silver, Gold & Platinum and range from $4,750 to $8,500. Demand is expected to be high, and space is limited.

For more information on Cardinals Premier Travel, please visit www.FitzHOFTrip.com.

This is an odd way of trying to drum up fan engagement, but I am interested in the thought process and what fans think. Is this something that you would want to be part of?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...in-on-larry-fitzgerald-hall-of-fame-induction

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Arizona Cardinals fans give Mike LaFleur hire high marks

Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur with wife Lauren LaFleur and their children pose for photos at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Welcome to SB Nation Reacts, a survey of fans across the NFL. Throughout the year we ask questions of the most plugged-in Cardinals fans and fans across the country. Sign up here to participate in the weekly emailed surveys.

---

Happy Saturday one and all.

The Arizona Cardinals announced Mike LaFleur as their new head coach about one week ago, they introduced him on Tuesday and announced the hiring of Nathaniel Hackett on Wednesday.

So when we asked the question of what your initial grade of LaFleur’s hire was, it was not surprising to see fans as cautiously optomistic.

68% of fans graded it as either a “B” or “C” with the majority of fans giving it a “B” grade, and that makes sense. You want to be excited, but it is mostly cautiously, as you try and believe in what the Cardinals are doing when it is the Cardinals and they have not earned that right.

However, only the most jaded are against the hire, so seeing how much the fans are trying to be excited while not overreacting makes a lot of sense.

What did you grade the hire?

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/n...dinals-fans-give-mike-lafleur-hire-high-marks

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Kelvin Beachum’s mom Culetta says she’s most proud of his humility

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 03: Kelvin Beachum #68 of the Arizona Cardinals celebrates after an NFL football game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on November 3, 2025 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Each year, the annual Walter Payton Man of the Year award is awarded to a player whose philanthropy and commitment to community stands out. For the Cardinals, this year’s nominee was Kelvin Beachum, and his mother, Culetta, took the time to speak to SB Nation on Radio Row ahead of Super Bowl 60 in San Francisco, Calif.

Mrs. Beachum joined us on behalf of JC Penney, who took her and two other NFL moms of Walter Payton Man of the Year candidates shopping to get red-carpet ready.

“It’s a beautiful, beautiful store,” Mrs. Beachum said. “We went shopping, looking at all the beautiful clothes, the glamorous shoes, blinging, gorgeous purses, jewelry — affordable jewelry. Oh my goodness. I could have just stayed right there for a little bit longer. Absolutely a nice experience, and just having the glamour, being all glammed up was a nice experience.”

Beachum was the oldest of four siblings — and his parents just adopted five nephews, which now makes Beachum the eldest of NINE siblings. Being the big brother led to Kelvin stepping into a leadership role in the family.

It became evident to the Beachums that Kelvin’s athletic talent was something special when he was in high school.

“He was very athletic, very athletic. He played basketball, then he played football, and I remember in a basketball game, he scored 30 I think it was — 32, 36 points in one game,” Mrs. Beachum said. “Then, when I saw him push a tractor tire — roll a tractor tire, and I said, ‘This is different.’ And it’s because of his work ethic.”

This year’s nomination for the Walter Payton Man of the Year award was Beachum’s third, and he’s been named the NFLPA’s weekly Community MVP award a record five times.

Beachum’s foundation, the Kelvin Beachum Foundation, focuses on meeting basic needs like clean water and food, and also on STEM. His interest in STEM, education, and helping others comes from his extended family, including his grandparents and great-grandparents.

“It stemmed from his grandparents, great grandparents. With his grandparents, my father is an automotive technician. His dad was a technician,” Mrs. Beachum said. He has his own business now, so Kelvin got to experience firsthand. So because of that, it just helped enhance his understanding. And especially education, and children who are not as fortunate. So he was able to say, you know what? I can use my resources to do more than what my parents were able to do. And as a parent, that’s what you always want to see. I want [my children] to be better than me.”

The NFL hasn’t changed Beachum, according to his mom. He remains humble.

“When he comes home, he is not the player. He’s my son,” Mrs. Beachum said. “He has work clothes. ‘Put your work clothes on, we need you to work on the farm. Your daddy needs you at the shop.’ And so with his him just being humble, that’s one of the things I’m really proud of.“

It may be obvious based on his efforts to help others and support his community, but Mrs. Beachum said that one thing she’d like fans to know about her son is that he has a big heart. And it seems like that’s a trait that runs in the family.

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/a...-mom-walter-payton-man-of-the-year-nfl-honors

 

[Arizona Cardinals]

Super Bowl LX picks, predictions and top prop bets

Feb 4, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; The Super Bowl 60 logo at the Super Bowl LX Experience at the Moscone Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images | Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

For the final time in the 2025 season, Jess and I are back to preview a game.

Today, it is Super Bowl LX, as the New England Patriots take on the Seattle Seahawks in a game where most of the money is flying in on the side of the Seahawks on the point spread, not just the moneyline.

Jess and I start with a look at our picks for the game and what we expect.

Yet, those are not the only bets that are appealing in this one.

Jess and I went through some of the best prop bets on FanDuel Sportsbook to find the best bang for your buck and look at if we can expect any to hit.

Enjoy the show with the embedded player above or by subscribing to the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or your favorite podcast platform, so you never miss a show. Make sure as well to give it a five-star rating!

View Link

Source: https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/s...r-bowl-lx-picks-predictions-and-top-prop-bets