GLENDALE – The introductory press conference for new Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur was filled with thanks and appreciating. On Tuesday, LaFleur had his first opportunity to speak as a member of the franchise and didn’t let the moment pass without thanking the people that gifted him this opportunity. The 38-year-old’s nearly 10-minute traveled from each of his coaching spots, thanking the organization and finishing with the fans and current players.
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur speaks to the media at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
LaFleur’s opening statement:
“Incredibly honored and humbled to be standing here. What a 48 hours it has been. I am honored to be the head football coach of the Arizona Cardinals.
“To you guys in the back, to the current players, I really appreciate you guys for showing up. When I got the list of how many guys were coming, that touched me. I cannot wait to start building relationships with you guys. I cannot wait to get to work with you guys. I promise I pour all for you guys every single day.”
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals owner Michael Bidwill (right) greets head coach Mike LaFleur at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
LaFleur detailed the relationship he has with owner Michael Bidwill and general manager Monti Ossenfort. Bidwill opened the door for him and made the building feel like home for LaFleur. In 2020, in San Francisco, LaFleur detailed how when Levi Stadium closed down, Bidwill allowed the 49ers to play in State Farm Stadium and continue their season.
Last year’s playoffs, the Los Angeles fires forced the Rams to find a new home, and again, Bidwill allowed LaFleur and his team a place to play. The former Los Angeles OC told his wife at that moment, he would be the coach of the Arizona Cardinals eventually, one couldn’t assume it would be that quickly.
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur speaks to the media at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Many execs and people around the league texted LaFleur about Bidwill, but also about Ossenfort. As the general manager, Ossenfort has interacted with plenty of NFL team personnel and built relationships across the league. Once LaFleur got the job, many of those same people told him how stellar of a human being the fourth-year Cardinals general manager has been.
The introductory press conference allowed LaFleur to thank many of his mentors and inspirations from Sean McVay, Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh and Dan Quinn. Each coach had their own story and memento that LaFleur kept to highlight the bond he shared with each of them.
Feb 3, 2026; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur poses for photos at the introductory press conference at the Cardinals training facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
He closed out his opening statement with how when he was in Arizona for Covid or the LA fires, it felt like home. The fanbase welcomed him, despite being on a division rival and felt internal grateful. LaFleur is ready to get to work and fight in his first head coaching opportunity.
New Cardinals head coach releases 1st official statement since hiring
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
