The Arizona Cardinals have officially rounded out their coordinator staff under new head coach Mike LaFleur, and it’s a trio that blends familiarity, experience, and a bit of intrigue. On Friday, the team announced Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, Nick Rallis returning as defensive coordinator, and Michael Ghobrial stepping in to lead special teams.
Let’s break down each hire - and more importantly, what LaFleur had to say about the men he’s trusting to help reshape the Cardinals' identity.
Nathaniel Hackett: A Fresh Start with a Familiar Pedigree
Nathaniel Hackett takes over the offense, bringing with him a deep well of NFL experience and a reputation for creativity in the passing game. While this will be his first time working directly with Mike LaFleur, the connection runs through family ties - Hackett coached under Matt LaFleur, Mike’s older brother, during two separate stints in Green Bay.
Mike LaFleur didn’t hold back in his praise:
“With Nathaniel, when you combine his experience with his high level of offensive production, it’s hard to think of anyone better suited for this position. I’ve never worked with him but know he’s definitely one of the top offensive minds in the league and cannot wait to see what he can do with the playmakers we have on this offense.”
That last part is key - “the playmakers we have on this offense.” LaFleur clearly believes Hackett’s scheme can unlock more from a unit that’s shown flashes but struggled with consistency.
Whether it’s maximizing Kyler Murray’s dual-threat potential or building a more dynamic run-pass balance, Hackett’s challenge is to elevate the Cardinals into a team that can dictate games with its offense. He’s got the résumé - now it’s about execution.
Nick Rallis: A Vote of Confidence in a Young Defensive Mind
Perhaps the most eye-catching decision is sticking with Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator. At just 30 years old, Rallis was the youngest DC in the league last season, and while the results on the field didn’t always match the ambition, Mike LaFleur sees something worth building on.
“Nick is someone I have always had great respect for, especially going against him in the division over the last three years. During the interview process, I expressed that he was someone I held in high regard and would be very interested in talking to about the position.
I’ve had the chance to meet with him and pick his brain over the last couple of weeks and am even more impressed than I was before. I know the respect he has from coaches around the league and especially with the players on this team and that says a lot to me.”
That’s a strong endorsement - not just of Rallis’ football IQ, but of his standing in the locker room and around the league. LaFleur’s familiarity with Rallis as a divisional opponent likely gave him a unique lens into his approach. And while the defense has struggled statistically, the belief here is that continuity, paired with LaFleur’s leadership, might help Rallis take that next step.
There’s also a layer of coaching tree synergy at play. With former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon now running the defense in Green Bay, it’s clear Rallis has supporters in high places. LaFleur’s decision to retain him suggests a shared vision for how this defense can evolve.
Michael Ghobrial: Energy and Experience on Special Teams
Special teams often fly under the radar - until a game-changing return or a missed field goal swings momentum. That’s where Michael Ghobrial comes in. He’s no stranger to LaFleur, having worked with him on the Jets, and he’s coming off two seasons as the Giants’ special teams coordinator.
“I have great familiarity and regard for him from our time with the Jets and I know he’s only continued to grow stronger as a coach in the subsequent years with the Giants. The enthusiasm he brings is infectious, which is critical for all coaches but especially on special teams. As a team, we will definitely benefit from his energy and experience.”
Ghobrial brings a mix of youthful energy and seasoned leadership - two traits that translate well to the often-chaotic world of special teams. His units in New York were aggressive and well-prepared, and that’s exactly the kind of edge Arizona needs in the third phase of the game.
The Bigger Picture
Mike LaFleur’s first major step as head coach was assembling a staff that reflects his philosophy - blending innovation with familiarity, and trusting in voices he believes can lead. Hackett brings offensive pedigree.
Rallis offers continuity and upside. Ghobrial injects energy and experience.
There’s no shortage of pressure in Arizona. But with this trio of coordinators, LaFleur is signaling that he’s not here to rebuild slowly - he’s here to compete, and he’s bringing coaches who share that mindset.