Charting a New Course: The Cardinals' Quest for a Transformative Head Coach
The Cardinals' Coaching Conundrum: A Team at a Crossroads
The Arizona Cardinals find themselves among a select group of NFL franchises currently seeking a new head coach. As the league's coaching carousel continues its rotations, several prominent figures have emerged as frontrunners in the Cardinals' search, setting the stage for a critical decision in the coming week.
Identifying the Frontrunners: Three Names in the Spotlight
Recent reports indicate that Raheem Morris, Anthony Campanile, and Mike LaFleur are considered the primary candidates within the organization to assume the pivotal role of the next Cardinals head coach. This revelation signals a narrowed focus in their extensive search process.
The Legacy of the Previous Regime: A Change in Direction
Arizona's coaching vacancy arose several weeks ago following the departure of Jonathan Gannon. The former Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator concluded his tenure with a 3-14 record in 2025, contributing to an overall 15-36 record across three seasons with the franchise. Gannon and his coaching staff were relieved of their duties on January 5th, prompting the current search for new leadership.
Raheem Morris: A Third Opportunity for a Respected Leader
At 49 years old, Raheem Morris presents a compelling, albeit surprising, candidacy. It is uncommon for an NFL coach to receive a third opportunity as a head coach after recording losing records with two previous teams, having gone 17-31 with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2009–2011) and 16-18 with the Atlanta Falcons (2024–2025). Despite these past records, Morris is widely respected throughout the league for his exceptional leadership qualities and his positive rapport with players and coaches alike.
Anthony Campanile: A Rising Star in Defensive Strategy
Anthony Campanile is rapidly gaining recognition in the coaching profession. He established himself as a top-tier linebackers coach from 2020 to 2024 with both the Miami Dolphins and the Green Bay Packers. His talents were further recognized when Liam Coen appointed him as the Jacksonville Jaguars' defensive coordinator in 2025, granting him significant autonomy over the team's defense.
LaFleur's Impact: A Defensive Resurgence in Jacksonville
Under Campanile's guidance, the Jaguars experienced a remarkable defensive transformation within a single year. After ranking among the bottom in various defensive metrics—30th in yards per play allowed (5.9), fifth in points per drive (1.75), 31st in scoring rate (45.6 percent), and 32nd in turnover rate (4.4 percent)—the team significantly improved. The following season, Jacksonville ascended to 11th in yards per play, fifth in points per drive, third in scoring rate (31.2 percent), and second in turnover rate (15.6 percent).
Mike LaFleur: Offensive Coordinator with a Family Legacy
Mike LaFleur, the younger sibling of the Packers' head coach, has served as the Los Angeles Rams' offensive coordinator under Sean McVay since 2023. Prior to this, he spent two years as the New York Jets' offensive coordinator (2021–2022) and contributed to the San Francisco 49ers' coaching staff from 2017 to 2020 under Kyle Shanahan.
Assessing LaFleur's Offensive Performance with the Jets
During his two-year tenure as the Jets' play-caller alongside Robert Saleh, LaFleur's offense faced challenges, ranking 30th in EPA per play (-0.079) and 31st in success rate (40.6 percent). It is important to consider, however, that quarterback Zach Wilson started 22 games during this period, potentially impacting the overall offensive statistics.