The Arizona Cardinals have initiated their search for a new head coach after parting ways with Jonathan Gannon. The organization is exploring various candidates to lead the team, with a strong focus on individuals who can bring a fresh perspective and strategic prowess. This pivotal decision aims to revitalize the team's performance and establish a new direction for future seasons.
Among the candidates under consideration, Anthony Weaver, the Miami Dolphins' defensive coordinator, has emerged as a significant prospect. His extensive experience in different coaching roles across the NFL, combined with his strategic approach to defense, makes him a compelling choice for the Cardinals' leadership. The team's thorough evaluation process indicates a commitment to selecting a coach capable of driving substantial improvement.
The Cardinals' Pursuit of a New Head Coach
The Arizona Cardinals have officially begun their quest for a new head coach, a critical move following Jonathan Gannon's departure. This decision comes after a challenging 2025 season where the team posted a 3-14 record, concluding with a nine-game losing streak and 14 losses in their final 15 matchups. Gannon's tenure saw a 15-36 overall record across three seasons, prompting the franchise to seek fresh leadership. The organization is committed to a comprehensive search, evaluating a diverse pool of coaching talent to find an individual who can inspire change and elevate the team's performance in the upcoming seasons.
The search process involves a meticulous review of potential candidates, aiming to identify a leader who can not only improve the team's on-field performance but also foster a winning culture. The Cardinals are looking for a coach with a proven track record, strategic vision, and the ability to develop players. This pivotal moment for the franchise underscores their determination to move past recent struggles and build a competitive team capable of achieving long-term success. The new head coach will be instrumental in reshaping the team's identity and guiding them towards a more promising future, both defensively and offensively.
Anthony Weaver and Other Prominent Candidates
Anthony Weaver, currently the defensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins, is a notable candidate for the Arizona Cardinals' head coaching vacancy. The Cardinals have formally requested an interview with Weaver, as reported by NFL Media's Ian Rapoport. Weaver's coaching career spans several NFL teams since 2012, including roles with the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns, and Baltimore Ravens, in addition to his time in Miami and Houston. His background includes coaching defensive lines, serving as a defensive run-game coordinator, and acting as an associate head coach, demonstrating a versatile and in-depth understanding of defensive strategies. While the Dolphins' defense in 2025 was ranked 22nd in yards and 24th in points, they had a strong showing in 2024, ranking fourth in yards allowed and tenth in points allowed, highlighting his potential to build a robust defense.
Beyond Weaver, the Cardinals are also considering several other prominent figures for the head coach position. This list includes Vance Joseph, the defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos; Robert Saleh, the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers; Klint Kubiak, the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks; and Thomas Brown, the tight ends coach and passing game coordinator for the New England Patriots. This diverse group of candidates reflects the Cardinals' broad approach to finding a leader with the right blend of experience, tactical knowledge, and leadership qualities. The team's meticulous evaluation of these individuals underscores their commitment to making an informed decision that will significantly impact the franchise's trajectory in the coming years. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills and philosophies, offering the Cardinals a range of options to consider in their quest for a new head coach capable of transforming the team's performance.