Full Breakdown
Arizona Cardinals Begin Search for New Head Coach
1/15/2026, 6:28:33 AM
Recent Developments in Coaching Search
Following the dismissal of head coach Jonathan Gannon, the Arizona Cardinals are actively seeking candidates to fill the head coaching position, marking their fifth search since 2017. General manager Monti Ossenfort has initiated interviews with several candidates, including notable figures from various NFL teams.
Key Candidates for the Head Coaching Position
The Cardinals have requested interviews with several candidates, each bringing unique qualifications:
- Arthur Smith: Currently the offensive coordinator for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Smith has prior head coaching experience with the Atlanta Falcons, where he posted a 21-30 record from 2021 to 2023. His offensive strategies previously led the Tennessee Titans to a fourth-place finish in points scored during the 2020 season. Smith has also been linked to an interview with the Tennessee Titans.
- Matt Burke: The Houston Texans' defensive coordinator, Burke has led his unit to become the top-ranked defense in the league during the 2025 regular season. He previously served as the Cardinals' defensive line coach in 2022.
- Jesse Minter: The Los Angeles Chargers' defensive coordinator, Minter's unit ranked fifth in the league for yards allowed per game. He has also been requested for interviews by multiple teams, including the Tennessee Titans.
- John Harbaugh: The former head coach of the Baltimore Ravens, Harbaugh has an extensive coaching resume, including a Super Bowl victory and multiple playoff appearances. He has also been approached by other teams, including the New York Giants and Tennessee Titans.
- Chris Shula: Currently the defensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, Shula has been with the Rams since 2017 and has experience in leading a top-10 defense.
- Mike LaFleur: The offensive coordinator for the Rams, LaFleur's offense led the NFL in several categories during the recent season, showcasing his capability to develop high-scoring teams.
- Jeff Hafley: The Green Bay Packers' defensive coordinator, Hafley has experience as a head coach at Boston College and has been requested for interviews by other teams as well.
- Raheem Morris: The former head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, Morris has extensive NFL coaching experience and has been linked to interviews with multiple teams.
- Matt Nagy: The Kansas City Chiefs' offensive coordinator and former head coach of the Chicago Bears, Nagy has a history of postseason appearances and has been requested for interviews by the Cardinals.
- Thomas Brown: The New England Patriots' passing game coordinator, Brown has interim head coaching experience and has been instrumental in developing young quarterbacks.
- Robert Saleh: The San Francisco 49ers' defensive coordinator, Saleh has previously served as head coach of the New York Jets and has a strong defensive background.
- Anthony Weaver: The Miami Dolphins' defensive coordinator, Weaver has experience in developing successful defensive units.
- Vance Joseph: The Denver Broncos' defensive coordinator and former Cardinals DC, Joseph has a history with the organization and is seen as a strong candidate.
Official Statements & Responses
The Cardinals have not publicly commented on the specifics of their coaching search but are expected to prioritize candidates with proven track records and connections to the organization.
Criticism & Opposition
While the Cardinals are exploring various candidates, some analysts question the frequency of coaching changes within the organization, suggesting that stability is crucial for long-term success.
What's Next
The Cardinals will continue their interviews in the coming weeks as they aim to finalize their decision on the next head coach, hoping to establish a more consistent and competitive team moving forward.
