Mike LaFleur: Delayed Cardinals Staff Build Could Prove Beneficial
Mike LaFleur’s late hiring as the head coach of the Cardinals on February 1 has sparked interest in how it impacts his staff-building process. Unlike many of his peers, LaFleur entered the hiring phase with a unique perspective.
Benefits of a Delayed Staff Build
Despite the challenges of being behind schedule, LaFleur sees advantages in his situation. Many assistant coaches had secured their 2026 positions by the time he began searching for his team. However, he believes this delay allowed him to explore candidates he might not have considered otherwise.
Insights from LaFleur
LaFleur commented, “Every day in January and early February, guys are getting plucked off.” He recognizes that while losing a candidate can be disappointing, it often leads to discovering a better fit. “Sometimes when you lose one, it might be the best thing that ever happened because you end up finding the next one that’s a better fit for us,” he noted.
Key Staff Appointments
- Offensive Coordinator: Nathaniel Hackett, LaFleur’s top choice.
- Defensive Coordinator: Nick Rallis has proven to be the right fit after thorough evaluation.
As of now, LaFleur is close to finalizing his staff and is optimistic about the team’s direction. He has taken the necessary time to ensure he builds a cohesive and effective coaching team for the Cardinals.
Overall, LaFleur’s strategic approach to filling his coaching staff may ultimately benefit the franchise. With careful consideration, he aims to create a team that can excel in the upcoming season.
