The Arizona Cardinals are piecing together a new-look coaching staff under head coach Mike LaFleur, and the latest addition brings championship experience to the defensive side of the ball. Zac Etheridge, who helped lead the Miami Hurricanes to a national title game appearance as their defensive pass game coordinator, is expected to join Arizona as the team's new cornerbacks coach.
Etheridge arrives in the desert after playing a key role in shaping one of the top defenses in college football. While Miami ultimately fell short in the title game against Indiana, their defense was a force all season long - and Etheridge's fingerprints were all over that success. A former standout safety at Auburn, Etheridge brings both playing pedigree and coaching chops to a Cardinals secondary that’s looking to take a step forward.
This move comes as Arizona maintains continuity at the top of the defense, with Nick Rallis retained as defensive coordinator. Rallis, one of the youngest DCs in the league, will now have Etheridge in his corner - literally - as they look to shore up a pass defense that struggled at times last year. Etheridge’s experience developing college talent and scheming against high-powered offenses should serve him well as he transitions to the NFL level.
On the special teams front, the Cardinals are bringing in Michael Ghobrial as their new coordinator. Ghobrial previously held the same role with the New York Giants and has a working history with LaFleur from their time together with the New York Jets. That familiarity could be key as LaFleur looks to establish a cohesive, collaborative staff in his first year at the helm.
Offensively, the Cardinals made another splash by hiring Nathaniel Hackett as their offensive coordinator. Hackett, who spent three seasons coordinating the offense in Green Bay under Matt LaFleur - Mike’s brother - brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the offensive system the Cardinals are expected to run. His arrival signals a clear direction for the offense, which is in need of a reset after a difficult 3-14 campaign.
Adding to the staff is former Pro Bowl quarterback Matt Schaub, who will take over as quarterbacks coach. Schaub’s playing experience and leadership could be a valuable asset in the quarterback room, especially as the Cardinals continue to evaluate and develop their signal-caller situation.
All told, LaFleur’s staff is beginning to take shape with a blend of NFL experience and rising coaching talent from the college ranks. The hires of Etheridge, Ghobrial, Hackett, and Schaub suggest a clear vision: surround the team with smart, adaptable coaches who can connect with players and elevate performance across the board.
After a rough 2023 season, the Cardinals are turning the page - and this coaching overhaul is the first big step in that process.