Cardinals Expand Head Coaching Search, Bring in Anthony Weaver for Second Interview
GLENDALE - The Arizona Cardinals may have their top three head coaching candidates in focus, but the door isn’t closed on other contenders. While Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, former Atlanta Falcons head coach Raheem Morris, and Jacksonville Jaguars defensive coordinator Anthony Campanile have emerged as the early frontrunners, Arizona is widening its net-and that includes a second look at former Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver.
Weaver is scheduled to meet with the Cardinals on Sunday for a second interview, signaling that Arizona’s front office is taking a long, hard look at all its options before making a decision. And Weaver’s résumé is one that demands attention.
A 2002 second-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens, Weaver carved out a solid seven-year NFL career as a defensive end, finishing with 15.5 career sacks. After hanging up his cleats in 2008, he quickly transitioned into coaching, starting as a graduate assistant at Florida before making his way to the NFL ranks.
His early coaching journey was a whirlwind-four teams in five years-but it was in Houston where Weaver began to make a name for himself. As the Texans’ defensive line coach, he helped mold a tough, physical front, sticking with the franchise for five seasons.
When Bill O’Brien was let go, Weaver was forced to pivot, eventually landing back where it all started-with the Ravens. Under John Harbaugh, he served as associate head coach and defensive line coach, a role that gave him both leadership experience and a broader view of defensive operations.
Then came his opportunity in Miami. When Vic Fangio left, Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel tapped Weaver to take over a defense that had ranked 22nd in points allowed.
Weaver wasted no time making his mark. In his first season, the Dolphins jumped into the top 10 in scoring defense and finished fourth in total yards allowed-a dramatic turnaround that showcased his ability to quickly elevate a unit.
This past season, however, was a tougher ride. Miami’s defense slipped back to 22nd in yards allowed and 24th in points, a regression that can be largely attributed to a wave of injuries that hit key contributors.
Still, Weaver’s 2024 work didn’t go unnoticed around the league. He’s already interviewed with the Buffalo Bills and is reportedly a finalist for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ head coaching vacancy.
At 45, Weaver brings a blend of player credibility, coaching versatility, and defensive acumen that could be exactly what the Cardinals need. Arizona’s defense has struggled in recent seasons, and Weaver has shown he can revitalize a unit quickly-even in less-than-ideal circumstances.
While Mike LaFleur appears to be the leading candidate at the moment, especially with a second interview on deck after the NFC Championship, the Cardinals aren’t rushing into a decision. And they shouldn’t. With Weaver back in the building for another conversation, Arizona is doing its due diligence-and giving a proven defensive mind a real shot at leading the franchise into its next chapter.