NFC West Offseason Roundup: Cardinals' Quarterback Questions, Rams Reload, Seahawks Forge New Defensive Identity
As the NFL offseason heats up, the NFC West is already making headlines with coaching hires, roster evaluations, and a few intriguing storylines that could shape the division’s future. Let’s break down where things stand for the Cardinals, Rams, and Seahawks as each team begins its offseason reset.
Cardinals: Kyler Murray’s Future Under the Microscope
There’s no sugarcoating it-the Arizona Cardinals are entering a pivotal offseason, and the biggest question looming over the desert is what the future holds for quarterback Kyler Murray.
Newly appointed head coach Mike LaFleur isn’t wasting time. He made it clear that everything is on the table when it comes to roster evaluation, including the quarterback spot, the offensive line, and special teams.
“We’ve got to go back and talk about all these decisions-quarterback, O-line, specialists,” LaFleur said. “Everything. It’s our job and for these players to build the best roster at each position.”
That’s not just coach-speak. It’s a signal that Arizona is open to big moves and tough conversations. When asked specifically about Murray, LaFleur didn’t tip his hand, but he did offer some insight from his time facing the dynamic QB.
“I’ll say this, being in this division for seven years, it was never fun [to play him]. I have a lot of respect for him as a player,” LaFleur said.
That’s a telling comment. Murray’s talent isn’t in question-his ability to extend plays and stress defenses is elite. But with a new regime in place, the Cardinals are doing their due diligence to decide if he’s still the guy to lead them forward.
Arizona is also actively working to fill out its coaching staff. The team recently interviewed former Falcons assistant K.J. Black for the quarterbacks coach position, a move that could hint at how they plan to develop the position-whether that’s with Murray or someone new.
Rams: Bubba Ventrone Joins McVay’s Staff, Stafford’s Window Still Open
In Los Angeles, Sean McVay continues to fine-tune his coaching staff, and he just landed a key piece in special teams coordinator Bubba Ventrone. The former Browns coordinator brings a fiery edge and a reputation for elevating every unit he’s involved with.
“He’s the guy I’ve had my eye on for a while,” McVay said. “Very aligned philosophically.
He’s got a great energy, a great edge. He’s a great communicator.”
Ventrone’s arrival isn’t just about X’s and O’s-it’s about culture. McVay emphasized Ventrone’s ability to uplift and energize players, something that could be especially valuable as the Rams continue to blend veterans and young talent.
Meanwhile, general manager Les Snead addressed the elephant in the room: Matthew Stafford’s future. While Stafford hasn’t officially announced his plans, Snead made it clear the team is preparing as if their veteran quarterback will return.
“If Matthew decides to come back, there will be an element… let’s definitely make the most of the time we have with Matthew,” Snead said. “The type of season that he showed he had, there’s only so many of those left.”
Translation: The Rams are still in win-now mode. And with Stafford playing at a high level last season, they’re not ready to pivot to a rebuild just yet.
Snead also pointed to cornerback as a key area of focus in the coming weeks. Expect the Rams to be aggressive in bolstering that group, whether through free agency or the draft.
Seahawks: A New Defensive Identity Takes Shape
Up in Seattle, the Seahawks are embracing a new era on defense-and they’re doing it with a fresh identity.
Julian Love and Leonard Williams both addressed the comparisons to the legendary Legion of Boom. And while they respect that era, they’re carving out their own path.
“There’s one Legion of Boom, we know that,” Love said. “We get a lot of inspiration from [them].
But we’re not them. We carry ourselves way different… we’re just trying to create an identity for ourselves.”
That identity now has a name: The Dark Side. It’s a moniker born out of a desire to separate this unit from past legends and embrace their own brand of physical, suffocating defense.
“We just kept hearing comparisons to the Legion of Boom,” Williams said. “We kind of thought that it was time for us to have our own name… I think The Dark Side stuck.”
The nickname fits. Seattle’s defense showed flashes of dominance this season, including multiple shutouts. And with the winter gloom of the Pacific Northwest as the backdrop, the image of a relentless, punishing defense fits the vibe perfectly.
Elsewhere in the organization, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell addressed speculation about a potential fine involving Seahawks ownership, stating that the team was not fined $5 million for violating any ownership rules.
Goodell also confirmed that the team will eventually be sold, as was expected following the passing of Paul Allen. For now, Jody Allen remains in control, and there’s no set timetable for a sale.
On the field, quarterback Sam Darnold continues to work his way back from an oblique injury. He was limited in practice, but he noted that the recent bye week helped him heal. As of now, he remains on track to start.
Final Thoughts
The NFC West is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing divisions heading into 2026. The Cardinals are at a crossroads with Kyler Murray.
The Rams are doubling down on their veteran core. And the Seahawks are building a new defensive identity with a chip on their shoulder.
Buckle up-this offseason is just getting started.