GLENDALE – New Cardinals HC Mike LaFleur’s clearest message was about scheme and belief, as he discussed his confidence in the new coaching staff.
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Arizona Cardinals new head coach Mike LaFleur poses for a photograph on Feb. 3, 2026, at Arizona Cardinals training center in Tempe. © Rob Schumacher/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Mike LaFleur excited for Arizona’s new coaching staff:
“I wanted him and nobody else. And he’s here.”
Mike LaFleur on new Arizona Cardinals offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett. pic.twitter.com/Pc2fXNowqN
— PHNX Cardinals (@PHNX_Cardinals) February 18, 2026
Oct 8, 2023; Denver, Colorado, USA; New York Jets offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett before the game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
When talking about new Offensive Coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, a coach often criticized for play-calling inconsistency, LaFleur didn’t hedge. “I wanted him, and nobody else.” per PHNX Cardinals. Hackett will not be calling plays, but LaFleur has seen him be successful in the NFL and was confident he is the right guy for the job. LaFleur’s structure is deliberate, as he owns the call sheet; Hackett owns the collaboration, design, and quarterback development. That clarity protects the offense from the noise that derailed other stops in Hackett’s career.
“He’s a stud and his best days are totally in front of him. I know it’s just a great fit for us.”
Arizona Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur on retaining DC Nick Rallis @PHNX_Cardinals pic.twitter.com/Zgq0SFulpd
— Bo Brack (@BoBrack) February 18, 2026
Defensively, LaFleur’s praise for Nick Rallis carried a similar tone. Calling him a “stud” whose best days are ahead reflects a growth-model approach. Rallis’ aggressive fronts paired with improved situational communication could be the difference between competitive and closing. LaFleur mentioned that when he spoke with Rallis, he enjoyed the conversations and agreed with what he heard, knowing they could be a good pairing.
Dec 7, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Arizona defensive coordinator Nick Rallis against the Los Angeles Rams at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
For local fans in Arizona, this is about stability. Nationally, it’s about proof. The Cardinals aren’t chasing splash hires; they’re building alignment. Open dialogue with a defined authority and developmental upside. In today’s NFL, belief backed by structure travels further than hype.
Cardinals interview Seahawks DB coach Karl Scott for defensive coordinator job
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Reporter Benjamin Bliklen covers the Arizona Diamondbacks, Arizona Cardinals, and Phoenix Suns for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @BenBliklen
