Cardinals’ Coaching Search Hits Critical Juncture as Saleh Moves Up Titans Interview
The NFL playoffs rolled on this weekend, but for the Arizona Cardinals, the focus remains squarely on the future - and more specifically, who’s going to lead it. The head coaching search in the desert has been slow, quiet, and at times, uninspiring. But over the last few days, things have finally started to move - just not necessarily in the direction Cardinals fans were hoping for.
Let’s start with the biggest development: Arizona managed to secure a virtual interview with 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh late last week. That might not sound like much on the surface, but for a franchise that’s been desperate for good news, it was a glimmer of hope - maybe even a game-changer.
Saleh, who’s long been respected for his defensive acumen and leadership qualities, would be a strong hire for a team that needs both identity and stability. And after his defense got lit up by Sam Darnold and the 49ers' backups on Saturday night, there was a sense - fair or not - that his stock might take a slight dip, potentially opening the door wider for Arizona.
But just as quickly as that door cracked open, it may be closing again. Sunday brought news that Saleh’s scheduled virtual interview with the Titans was not only converted to an in-person meeting, but also moved up to Monday. And in this league, when a team brings a candidate in face-to-face on short notice, it often signals that a deal could be imminent.
That puts the Cardinals in a tough spot. Saleh appears to be the most viable top-tier option left on the board, and if they want him, they may have to act fast - and aggressively.
We’ve seen this play out already: Kevin Stefanski just landed the Falcons job after an in-person meeting with Arthur Blank. That’s the kind of urgency Arizona needs to match if they hope to land their guy.
Where Things Stand
To date, the Cardinals have reportedly interviewed 10 candidates. One of the more surprising names to emerge was Rams defensive coordinator Chris Shula.
Initially, Shula prioritized meetings with other teams, but eventually sat down with Arizona. That’s a positive sign, but it’s unclear how high he ranks on the Cardinals’ internal board.
Meanwhile, the team also requested a second interview with Packers DC Jeff Hafley. The problem?
Hafley is now considered the frontrunner for the Dolphins' head coaching job - and that connection makes sense. Miami’s newly hired GM, Jon-Eric Sullivan, previously served as Green Bay’s VP of Player Personnel.
That kind of front-office familiarity can go a long way in these decisions.
With Jim Harbaugh and Stefanski now off the market (neither of whom were directly linked to Arizona), there are seven coaching vacancies left league-wide. Among the 10 candidates Arizona has interviewed, four stand out as names with rising demand: Saleh, Klint Kubiak, Chris Shula, and Mike LaFleur.
LaFleur and Shula, of course, are still coaching - and winning. Their Rams defense just helped take down Caleb Williams and the Bears in a thrilling overtime win, so any follow-up interviews will have to wait until their playoff run concludes.
What’s Next?
For the Cardinals, the clock is ticking. Saleh represents the kind of hire that could bring instant credibility to the locker room and a much-needed culture shift.
If Arizona truly believes he’s the right fit, this is the moment to make a move. Whether that means offering playcalling duties, personnel influence, or simply a compelling vision for the future, the organization has to put its best foot forward - and fast.
Beyond Saleh, the Cardinals still have intriguing options. Klint Kubiak is a rising offensive mind with NFL bloodlines and a growing reputation.
Mike LaFleur has proven himself as a creative playcaller. Chris Shula brings defensive chops and a respected name.
Even Raheem Morris, though not yet formally linked, would be a strong candidate if he enters the mix.
But the margin for error is razor-thin. Arizona can’t afford to swing and miss - especially not in a cycle where other teams are moving quickly and decisively.
Quick Hits from Around the Valley
Suns Snap Skid, Booker Looks Healthy
The Phoenix Suns got back on track Saturday night, taking down the Knicks 106-99 to end a brief two-game slide.
Devin Booker looked sharp, leading the way with 27 points in 38 minutes. Most importantly, his ankle - which had been a concern - didn’t seem to be an issue at all.
The Suns are now 25-17 and trending in the right direction. And there’s more good news: Jalen Green, who’s been sidelined most of the season with a hamstring injury, is officially questionable for Monday night’s matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. There’s no guarantee he suits up, but his return is inching closer.
Arizona Men Stay Perfect
The top-ranked Arizona men’s basketball team just keeps rolling.
On Saturday, they held off a scrappy UCF squad on the road, winning 84-77 behind a 23-point performance from senior Jaden Bradley. The Wildcats are now a perfect 18-0, and they’re showing no signs of slowing down.
Women’s Hoops: Mixed Results Across the State
Arizona’s women’s team battled hard against No.
10 TCU but couldn’t hang on late, falling 78-62. Becky Burke’s squad has now dropped five of their last six and sits at 10-7 on the year.
Over in Tempe, the ASU women are holding their own. A 67-51 win over Kansas on Saturday bumps their record to 17-2, even after a recent loss to TCU. Molly Miller’s group continues to impress.
Sun Devils Struggling
It’s been a rough stretch for Bobby Hurley’s Sun Devils.
They ran into a powerhouse Houston squad on Sunday and got steamrolled, 103-73. That’s now six losses in their last seven games - a tough run, even considering the strength of their schedule.
The Cardinals’ coaching search is finally heating up - but the pressure is on. With Robert Saleh emerging as the top available candidate and other teams making moves, Arizona has to decide whether it’s ready to make a bold play or risk watching another opportunity slip away.