Posted on Feb 18

Cardinals hire Hackett as OC under new head coach LaFleur, solidifying coaching connection

Posted Feb 18, 2026

The Arizona Cardinals have appointed Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator, an indication of strategic alignment under head coach Mike LaFleur.

Why it matters: Hackett's hiring marks a crucial step for the Cardinals as they seek to revamp their offensive strategy following a disappointing season.

With extensive experience in high-powered offenses, particularly during his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, Hackett is expected to bring innovative play-calling and a collaborative approach that could significantly benefit the Cardinals' offensive unit.

What's new: Mike LaFleur's specific desire for Hackett underscores a strong professional relationship built over a decade.

LaFleur stated emphatically during his introductory press conference that Hackett was his top choice, saying, "I wanted him and nobody else — and he's here." This sentiment reflects not only trust but a shared vision for the team's growth.

By the numbers: Hackett’s previous role as the offensive coordinator for the Packers saw him lead a team that consistently ranked among the top offenses in the league.

From 2019 to 2021, he coordinated an offense that featured MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers, yielding impressive statistics and playoff appearances.

What to watch: As Hackett transitions from a defensive analyst role back to offensive play-calling, observers will be keen to see how he adapts his strategies to fit the Cardinals’ current roster, including star quarterback Kyler Murray.

His ability to set the tone and energy within the team will be pivotal in creating a culture of accountability and success.

Yes, but: While Hackett has a proven track record, his recent stint as a defensive analyst may raise questions about his readiness to take full control of the offense again.

However, both LaFleur and Hackett emphasize the importance of relationships in football, which could mitigate any potential concerns regarding his lack of recent offensive oversight.

The bottom line: The Cardinals are banking on the synergy between LaFleur and Hackett to rejuvenate their offensive scheme, hoping to leverage their combined experiences to yield better results in the upcoming season.

If successful, this pairing could lay the groundwork for a more dynamic attack that maximizes the talents of their key players, turning around a franchise that has struggled in recent years.

Cardinals hire Hackett as OC under new head coach LaFleur, solidifying coaching connection

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 18, 2026

The Arizona Cardinals have appointed Nathaniel Hackett as their new offensive coordinator, an indication of strategic alignment under head coach Mike LaFleur.

Why it matters: Hackett's hiring marks a crucial step for the Cardinals as they seek to revamp their offensive strategy following a disappointing season.

With extensive experience in high-powered offenses, particularly during his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, Hackett is expected to bring innovative play-calling and a collaborative approach that could significantly benefit the Cardinals' offensive unit.

What's new: Mike LaFleur's specific desire for Hackett underscores a strong professional relationship built over a decade.

LaFleur stated emphatically during his introductory press conference that Hackett was his top choice, saying, "I wanted him and nobody else — and he's here." This sentiment reflects not only trust but a shared vision for the team's growth.

By the numbers: Hackett’s previous role as the offensive coordinator for the Packers saw him lead a team that consistently ranked among the top offenses in the league.

From 2019 to 2021, he coordinated an offense that featured MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers, yielding impressive statistics and playoff appearances.

His ability to set the tone and energy within the team will be pivotal in creating a culture of accountability and success.

Yes, but: While Hackett has a proven track record, his recent stint as a defensive analyst may raise questions about his readiness to take full control of the offense again.

However, both LaFleur and Hackett emphasize the importance of relationships in football, which could mitigate any potential concerns regarding his lack of recent offensive oversight.

If successful, this pairing could lay the groundwork for a more dynamic attack that maximizes the talents of their key players, turning around a franchise that has struggled in recent years.