The Arizona Cardinals’ head coaching search is starting to take shape, and after weeks of relative quiet, we’re finally seeing some real movement.
The team is set to bring in Anthony Weaver for a second interview - a clear sign that he's firmly in the mix. Weaver, who was a finalist for the Steelers’ head coaching job before Pittsburgh ultimately hired Mike McCarthy, now becomes a pivotal piece in Arizona’s process. His second interview also fulfills the requirements of the Rooney Rule, which means the Cardinals are now free to make a hire at any time.
McCarthy, for his part, was reportedly never interested in the Cardinals’ job to begin with. He’s not alone - Sean McDermott is also said to have had no interest in the position.
That’s notable, not just because of who they are, but because it speaks to the current perception of the Cardinals’ situation. Whether it’s the roster, the front office dynamics, or the long-term outlook, it’s clear this isn’t a job that’s drawing universal appeal among top-tier candidates.
But that doesn’t mean Arizona is without options - or without a plan.
The buzz right now is that Mike LaFleur has emerged as the frontrunner for the head coaching role. LaFleur, known for his offensive acumen and ability to develop quarterbacks, would represent a forward-thinking hire for a franchise that still has plenty of questions to answer on that side of the ball. Pairing him with a veteran defensive coordinator could help balance things out - and that’s where Raheem Morris comes in.
Morris is reportedly the leading candidate to take over the defense if LaFleur is hired. That kind of pairing - a young offensive mind with an experienced defensive presence - would mirror the structure Arizona had under Kliff Kingsbury and Vance Joseph.
That duo, for all the ups and downs, did manage to get the Cardinals to the playoffs once. It wasn’t perfect, but it showed that the formula can work when the pieces are aligned.
Still, nothing is locked in. If LaFleur doesn’t take the job - or if his in-person interviews don’t blow the Cardinals away - there’s another name to watch: Campanile.
He’s gaining serious traction as a potential option, and from what’s being said by those who’ve followed his work in Jacksonville, this would be a home-run hire for Arizona. The buzz around him isn’t just hype - it’s coming from people who’ve seen what he can do up close.
One thing to keep an eye on: if Campanile does get the nod, who he brings with him could be just as important as the hire itself. Staff building will be critical for a Cardinals team that needs a reset across the board - not just on the field, but in the locker room and on the sidelines.
As the coaching carousel continues to spin, Arizona is inching closer to making a decision. And while it may not be the most high-profile job on the market, the right hire here could set the tone for a much-needed turnaround in the desert.