The Arizona Cardinals are making strategic moves to bolster their coaching staff, bringing in Mike LaFleur as head coach after a challenging period with Jonathan Gannon. The latest addition to LaFleur's team is Rod Wilson, who steps in as the inside linebackers coach. This move is part of the Cardinals' push to finalize a robust coaching lineup.
Rod Wilson, previously the outside linebackers coach for the Kansas City Chiefs, brings a wealth of experience both as a player and a coach. His time with the Chiefs over the last four seasons has been marked by significant contributions to their defensive unit. Wilson's playing career includes four seasons in the NFL, predominantly with the Chicago Bears, where he made his mark as a reliable backup defensive back.
At 44, Wilson transitions to Arizona with the task of enhancing the Cardinals' outside linebacker group. His expertise will be crucial as the team looks to improve upon their No. 27 defensive ranking from the 2025-26 season. In contrast, Wilson's former team, the Chiefs, boasted a top-10 defense, underscoring the impact he could have in Arizona.
As the Cardinals near the completion of their coaching staff, the focus will soon turn to the roster. The quarterback position remains a significant area of interest, with Arizona holding approximately $40 million in cap space and the No. 3 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. These resources provide the franchise with ample opportunity to address key needs and build a competitive team for the upcoming season.