The Arizona Cardinals have named Mike LaFleur as their new head coach. LaFleur, formerly the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams, agreed to a five-year contract. The Cardinals pivoted to LaFleur after another potential candidate was expected to join the Raiders. This hire marks a significant move for the Cardinals as they aim to improve their performance.

LaFleur's hiring comes after a disappointing 3-14 season for the Cardinals, who fired their previous coach, Jonathan Gannon, earlier this year. LaFleur, 38, brings offensive play-calling experience, having served as the Rams' OC and the New York Jets' OC previously. He'll inherit a team with a key question mark at the quarterback position and a need for improvement.

LaFleur's experience with the Rams and 49ers provides him with familiarity within the NFC West. The Cardinals' owner, Michael Bidwill, expressed confidence in LaFleur's ability to lead the team. With the third pick in the upcoming draft, LaFleur faces the challenge of turning the Cardinals around. The team hopes to see improvement "in the first year, not in the second year."