The Arizona Cardinals are expected to bring in former NFL quarterback Matt Schaub as their new quarterbacks coach under recently hired head coach Matt LaFleur, according to reports. It’s a notable move-one that signals LaFleur’s intent to build a staff with deep playing experience, even if that experience hasn’t yet translated into coaching resumes.
Schaub, 44, hasn’t held an official coaching title before, but he’s not exactly stepping in cold. He served as an analyst with the Falcons in 2023, giving him a behind-the-scenes look at the daily grind of NFL operations. That year in Atlanta likely helped him bridge the gap between life as a player and the demands of coaching-especially in a league where the margin for error at the quarterback position is razor-thin.
If you're wondering why Schaub makes sense for this role, just look at his journey. Drafted in the third round by the Falcons in 2004, he carved out a 17-year NFL career that included starting stints, backup roles, and everything in between.
After three years in Atlanta, he was traded to the Texans in 2007, where he found his stride as a starter. Schaub spent seven seasons in Houston, becoming a Pro Bowler and throwing for over 24,000 yards during his time there.
He later had short stints with the Raiders and Ravens before returning to Atlanta in 2016, where he wrapped up his career.
Over 155 career games, Schaub completed 64.2 percent of his passes for 25,467 yards, 136 touchdowns, and 91 interceptions. He also chipped in with 353 rushing yards and four touchdowns-modest numbers on the ground, but a reminder that he could move when needed. His longevity in the league speaks volumes about his understanding of the quarterback position, the locker room dynamic, and the mental demands of playing under center.
Now, he’ll be tasked with helping develop the Cardinals’ quarterback room-whoever ends up leading that group in 2026. His experience as both a franchise quarterback and a veteran backup gives him a unique perspective.
He knows what it’s like to be “the guy,” and he knows how to support one too. That versatility could be a real asset in a league where quarterback development is often the difference between a rebuild and a playoff run.
While this will be Schaub’s first official coaching gig, his transition from the field to the sideline feels like a natural next step. And with LaFleur looking to put his stamp on the Cardinals' culture, surrounding himself with former players who’ve lived the NFL grind could be a smart way to start.