Cardinals' Mike LaFleur can perfect the playbook to prove his worth

The Arizona Cardinals have a new head coach in Mike LaFleur and a handful of new player personnel that should create a new trajectory for the franchise. With that being said, LaFleur obviously seems antsy in press conferences and when talking to media reporters. LaFleur's desire to say the right things and posture the right attitude is apparent in his temperament. However, with tons of NFL experience, LaFleur should minimize his efforts to prove himself with his speech because he will be able to do so once he perfects the playbook.

Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur speaks during a press conference at the Arizona Cardinals facility in Tempe after the first round of the NFL Draft on April 23, 2026.

Last week, general manager Monti Ossenfort and LaFleur gave reporters countless rebuttals, helping them form ideas about the direction of the franchise and their decision-making during the 2026 NFL draft. Still, LaFleur and Ossenfort can only convey their ideals. Meanwhile, as Cardinals’ fans heal from the empty promises of former head coach Jonathan Gannon and consecutive years of turmoil, it’s fair to assume that empty words won’t suffice the locals of Phoenix, AZ. LaFleur doesn’t have the innate vocal cords that demand the attention of mighty men, nor does he have the stature, so his leadership might best be displayed in exhibiting his football knowledge to optimize the Cardinals' offense. LaFleur has weapons at his disposal in wide receiver Michael Wilson, Marvin Harrison Jr. and All-Pro tight end Trey McBride, but establishing the teams’ rushing attack will be a task, one that may rely on coaching tactics and talent.