Arizona Cardinals face low expectations during Mike LaFleur head coaching debut

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 2:31 PM

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

Arizona Cardinals face low expectations during Mike LaFleur head coaching debut
Summary

The Arizona Cardinals enter the 2026 NFL season under first-year head coach Mike LaFleur with a roster undergoing significant transition. The team plans to utilize a quarterback rotation featuring Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew II, and rookie Carson Beck to lead an offense centered on skill players Trey McBride, Jeremiyah Love, and Michael Wilson. Following a low-key free agency period that saw the additions of Elijah Wilkinson and Isaac Seumalo, the Cardinals aim to improve upon a three-win record from the previous season. The departure of veteran defensive lineman Calais Campbell leaves the coaching staff relying on younger players like Walter Nolen and Darius Robinson to bolster the trenches. Cornerback Denzel Burke, who earned a 78.4 passer rating against him last year, is identified as a potential breakout candidate for a defense looking to improve its league ranking.

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By the Numbers
  • Mike LaFleur begins his first season as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals.
  • Jacoby Brissett, Gardner Minshew II, and Carson Beck are the primary options at quarterback.
  • Cornerback Denzel Burke is expected to play a larger role in the secondary.
  • The Cardinals roster includes young core players Trey McBride, Jeremiyah Love, and Michael Wilson.
  • The team added veteran linemen Elijah Wilkinson and Isaac Seumalo during free agency.
Latest Updates
  • 2:31 PMYahoo SportsCardinals 2026 season preview: Thank goodness for low expectations
What they're saying
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Mike LaFleur's head coaching debut probably won't go well. That's alright!

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