The Arizona Cardinals fired head coach Jonathan Gannon after Week 18 of the 2025 NFL season. The decision came after the franchise missed the playoffs in each of the three seasons under the head coach, and closed out the season on a nine-game losing streak.
Jonatha Gannon Replacement Candidates
Here are some potential candidates whom the Cardinals could look to hire after firing Gannon:
Jeff Hafley, Defensive Coordinator, Green Bay Packers
According to PFSN’s Defense Impact Metric, Arizona finished the season as the 25th-ranked unit in the league. Getting an elite defensive coordinator and leader like Jeff Hafley will be a huge boost for the team.
He is widely viewed as one of the top head coaching candidates in this hiring cycle. He has played a central role in transforming Green Bay’s defense and elevating it even further this season.
While the addition of Micah Parsons has made a noticeable impact, Hafley’s defensive structure and play-calling have been equally influential. Given his previous head coaching experience at the college level, it would not be surprising if his time in Green Bay proves to be short-lived.
Joe Brady, Offensive Coordinator, Buffalo Bills
Joe Brady played a key role in helping Josh Allen reach MVP-level performance and was the architect behind the LSU Tigers’ record-setting offense. Now, he could be the coach to unlock the best version of Kyler Murray.
Brady’s scheme prioritizes quarterback movement and attacking every area of the field. Even with his smaller frame, Murray has shown the ability to throw with both velocity and touch at all levels.
Klint Kubiak, OC, Seattle Seahawks
Klint Kubiak may not remain in Seattle for long, and his impact explains why. Hired this past offseason, the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator has quickly reshaped the unit into one of the league’s most efficient offenses.
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His system is built around a strong run game that simplifies reads for the quarterback, an approach that has paid dividends with Sam Darnold this season.
Kubiak’s play-action-heavy design has been particularly effective, and it could be an ideal fit for the Cardinals as they have playmakers like Trey McBride, Michael Wilson, and Marvin Harrison Jr.
Mike LaFleur, Offensive Coordinator, Los Angeles Rams
Another prominent figure from the McVay coaching tree, Mike LaFleur, continues to build momentum as a future head coach. He has been instrumental in helping Matthew Stafford deliver MVP-caliber production and has steadily strengthened his standing within NFL coaching circles.
While he does not yet have the same level of name recognition as his brother, Matt LaFleur, it feels increasingly inevitable that Mike will get his shot. Given the offensive talent available in Atlanta, his creativity and offensive-minded approach could be a great match.
The numbers support that case. According to PFSN’s Offense Impact Metric, the Los Angeles Rams currently boast the top-ranked offense in the league, underscoring just how effective LaFleur has been this season.
Mike McCarthy, Former Dallas Cowboys Head Coach
Fifteen years ago, Mike McCarthy guided the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl title. Later, in Dallas, he helped Dak Prescott develop into the most productive statistical quarterback in Dallas Cowboys history.
McCarthy has always valued a strong running game, but his willingness to feature tight ends and balance explosive plays with a methodical approach could help Murray rediscover the confidence and form that led the Arizona Cardinals to the playoffs in 2021.
Even if the franchise decides to select a new quarterback, McCarthy will be the right head coach for him.
