The Arizona Cardinals are entering a new era under head coach Mike LaFleur, the former 49ers offensive coordinator, after finishing 3-14 last season and going winless against the NFC West at 0-6. Arizona has parted ways with quarterback Kyler Murray to free up future cap space and handed the starting job to veteran Jacoby Brissett, with Gardner Minshew signed as backup.
The 2025 season exposed deep problems in Glendale. The Cardinals went 2-8 in one-possession games and lost five straight decisions determined by field-goal margin. Wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. appeared to regress, and Murray struggled even when healthy. The result was a full coaching staff overhaul.
To rebuild the offense around Brissett, Arizona added wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Devin Duvernay and running back Tyler Allgeier. Tight end Trey McBride, considered All-Pro caliber, joins Harrison Jr., Michael Wilson and Bourne as the core skill-position group. Rookie running back Jeremiyah Love could add a spark to the ground game, but a high-ankle sprain has left his availability for the season opener uncertain.
None of these additions are expected to turn Arizona into a playoff contender this year, but the moves are meant to make the team competitive again and give LaFleur a real chance to prove what his system can do.
Defense Retains Continuity, Faces Youth Questions
Defensive coordinator Nick Rallis was retained to preserve scheme continuity, but the unit still lacks difference-making playmakers. Edge rusher Josh Sweat and defensive lineman Andrew Billings anchor the pass rush, while a young secondary will be tested immediately by the NFC West’s high-powered offenses.
For bettors, the Cardinals’ win total sits in the balance between hope and history. Given the roster uncertainty and lack of proven improvement, oddsmakers and analysts are split on whether Arizona clears even a modest four-win bar this season, with some suggesting the under 3.5 wins as the safer play.
