Cardinals Reportedly Considering Retaining Defensive Coordinator Nick Rallis

The team is said to be leaning towards keeping Rallis despite a disappointing 2022 season.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The Arizona Cardinals are reportedly considering retaining Nick Rallis as their defensive coordinator, according to CBS Sports' Matt Zenitz. Rallis has served as the Cardinals' DC for the past three seasons under former head coach Jonathan Gannon. Despite the team's struggles on defense last season, allowing 357.7 yards and 28.7 points per game, the Cardinals view Rallis as a 'strong possibility' to remain in his role under new head coach Mike LaFleur.

Why it matters

Retaining Rallis would provide some continuity on the defensive side of the ball as LaFleur builds out his new coaching staff in Arizona. However, the Cardinals' defense was one of the worst in the NFL last season, so keeping Rallis would be a bit of a gamble as the team looks to turn things around.

The details

The Cardinals have also interviewed several other candidates for the defensive coordinator job, including Seattle Seahawks defensive backs coach Karl Scott, Los Angeles Rams defensive passing game coordinator Aubrey Pleasant, New York Giants linebackers coach Charlie Bullen, and Houston Texans defensive backs coach Dino Vasso. Vasso has since removed his name from consideration.

  • The Cardinals finished the 2022 season with a 3-14 record.
  • Rallis has served as the Cardinals' defensive coordinator for the past three seasons.

The players

Nick Rallis

The Arizona Cardinals' defensive coordinator for the past three seasons.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, hired in 2023.

Jonathan Gannon

The former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, who was fired after the 2022 season.

Karl Scott

The defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks.

Aubrey Pleasant

The defensive passing game coordinator for the Los Angeles Rams.

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What they’re saying

“The Arizona Cardinals retaining Nick Rallis as their defensive coordinator is a 'strong possibility,'”

— Matt Zenitz, CBS Sports Reporter (CBS Sports)

What’s next

The Cardinals will continue to evaluate their defensive coordinator options and make a decision in the coming weeks as they finalize their coaching staff for the 2023 season.

The takeaway

The Cardinals' defense was a major weakness in 2022, so retaining Rallis as defensive coordinator would be a risky move as the team looks to turn things around under new head coach Mike LaFleur. However, the potential for continuity on that side of the ball could be appealing as LaFleur builds out his staff.