Mike LaFleur was officially named the Cardinals’ head coach on February 1. This timing put him at a disadvantage compared to other coaches who were already forming their teams. However, LaFleur sees this as a potential upside.
He notes that while many strong assistant coaches had already signed contracts for the 2026 season, the delay allowed him to discover talent he might not have otherwise considered. “Every day in January and early February, coaches are being picked up,” LaFleur explained. “But there’s a wealth of good coaches out there. You lose one opportunity, but that can lead you to find a better fit for our team.”
LaFleur highlights some clear wins in his hiring process. He secured Nathaniel Hackett, the only offensive coordinator he wanted. Additionally, he took the time to connect with Nick Rallis, the team’s current defensive coordinator, ultimately deciding he was the right choice for the role.
With his staff nearly complete, LaFleur expressed satisfaction with the coaches he’s brought on board. The focus now is on creating a cohesive team and preparing for the upcoming season.
This strategy reflects a growing trend in sports where coaches are encouraged to take their time in staff selection. According to a recent survey, about 70% of NFL teams felt rushed during their hiring processes in previous seasons. Coaches like LaFleur are pushing back against this trend, emphasizing the importance of careful consideration and relationship building. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on LaFleur and his approach to leadership, which just might redefine aspects of team building in the NFL.
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