Cardinals’ LaFleur projected to win fewest games among new NFL coaches

Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur is projected to win fewer games than any other new coach in the NFL for the 2026 season, according to a ranking by NFL.com analyst Bucky Brooks. LaFleur sits ninth in the list of ten incoming head coaches, ahead of only Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley.

The projection places the Cardinals at the bottom of the league for expected wins, a position driven by a defence ranked among the worst in the NFL last season. Despite retaining defensive coordinator Nick Rallis and making no significant offseason additions to improve the unit, the team faces a challenging schedule in the NFC West. The division includes the reigning Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, alongside the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.

While the defensive outlook remains a primary concern, the Cardinals’ offense features a roster of dynamic playmakers. The unit includes rookie running back Jeremiyah Love, wide receivers Michael Wilson and Marvin Harrison Jr., and tight end Trey McBride. LaFleur aims to build around this talent, though the analyst notes the eventual need to identify and develop a franchise quarterback to climb the conference ranks.

LaFleur’s mandate involves resurrecting a franchise that has recorded only one playoff appearance in the past decade. He intends to establish a demanding culture characterised by positive vibes, hoping his enthusiasm will help the team exceed expectations in his first year. However, the structural issues on defence suggest limited opportunities for victories.

The analyst described the defensive unit as potentially an "exciting bad team," highlighting the difficulty in limiting explosive plays and creating turnovers. With the defence remaining short-handed on paper and lacking significant reinforcement, the projections indicate LaFleur will face an uphill battle for wins in 2026.