Could Mike LaFleur, the Rams' offensive guru, be the next head coach of the Arizona Cardinals? The idea might sound crazy, but one analyst believes it's a real possibility!
The NFL coaching carousel is already spinning, with several teams making changes before the 2026 season even arrives. The Arizona Cardinals, fresh off parting ways with Jonathan Gannon after a lackluster three-year run, are among those searching for a new leader. They're expected to conduct a widespread search, but according to Conor Orr of Sports Illustrated, the solution might be closer than they think – right within their own division, the NFC West.
Orr specifically points to Mike LaFleur, the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, as a potential fit. Why? Because of his potential to unlock the Cardinals' offensive talent, especially once they solidify their quarterback situation. Think about the possibilities with players like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride. LaFleur, currently 38 years old, has been orchestrating the Rams' offense since 2023 and has been instrumental in their offensive transformation, particularly their effective use of 13-personnel (one running back and three tight ends). Now, the Cardinals might not be perfectly suited for that exact same strategy right away, but LaFleur's fresh perspective could help them identify the best ways to utilize their existing players. And this is the part most people miss: bringing in an intra-divisional coach like LaFleur could give the Cardinals an edge by understanding their competition more intimately.
It's undoubtedly a bold move. But here's where it gets controversial... Other offensive minds who've learned under Sean McVay, the Rams' head coach, have gone on to achieve considerable success elsewhere. Just look at LaFleur's older brother, Matt LaFleur, who has built a successful program with the Green Bay Packers. Zac Taylor of the Cincinnati Bengals, Liam Coen who had a stint with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and Kevin O'Connell of the Minnesota Vikings have all demonstrated their coaching prowess after working under McVay's tutelage. Could Mike LaFleur be the next name on that impressive list?
Furthermore, LaFleur has spent the last three seasons studying the Cardinals intensely, as the Rams and Cardinals face each other twice every year. This in-depth knowledge of the Cardinals' strengths and weaknesses could be a major asset during the interview process for both sides. Before his time with the Rams, LaFleur also honed his skills in the highly regarded Kyle Shanahan offensive system while serving as an assistant with the San Francisco 49ers. This experience gives him a diverse background and a deep understanding of offensive strategy.
While the Rams are currently focused on their playoff aspirations, it wouldn't be surprising to hear that the Cardinals have requested an interview with LaFleur in the coming weeks.
But consider this: If the Cardinals hire LaFleur, are they simply trying to replicate the Rams' success, or is there a genuine belief that he can bring a unique vision to the team? Would hiring a coach from a division rival truly give them an advantage, or would it simply create more animosity? And what if the Cardinals aren't even the best fit for LaFleur, and another team emerges as a more appealing option? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
