Cardinals Open Offseason with New Coach LaFleur's 'No B.S.' Approach

Linebacker Zaven Collins says LaFleur is 'very to the point' on expectations as Arizona looks to rebound from 3-14 season.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 1:37pm

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New Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur is setting a no-nonsense tone as the team begins voluntary offseason workouts this week. Players like linebacker Zaven Collins and center Hjalte Froholdt say LaFleur is emphasizing attention to detail and accountability, stressing that 'everything is a big deal' as the Cardinals look to rebound from a 3-14 season under the previous regime.

Why it matters

After a dismal 3-14 season, the Cardinals are hoping LaFleur's disciplined approach can help the team avoid the self-inflicted mistakes that plagued them in 2025. Establishing a culture of accountability and focus on the little things will be crucial as the Cardinals aim to get back to winning football games.

The details

LaFleur, who has coaching experience under Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh, and Sean McVay, is taking a direct 'no B.S.' approach with the Cardinals. Players say he is very clear on his expectations and what he will and will not allow. The emphasis is on 'winning football games' and ensuring the team is 'all on the same page' with even the most basic fundamentals like how they break the huddle.

  • The Cardinals' voluntary offseason program began this week.

The players

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, known for his no-nonsense approach after coaching under Kyle Shanahan, Robert Saleh, and Sean McVay.

Zaven Collins

A linebacker for the Arizona Cardinals who says LaFleur is a 'no B.S. guy' who is very clear on his expectations for the team.

Hjalte Froholdt

The center for the Arizona Cardinals who says LaFleur is emphasizing that 'everything is a big deal,' including basic fundamentals like how the team breaks the huddle.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, he's clear and correct and very to the point on how he wants things done and what he expects from us in the building, what he allows and what he doesn't allow. You can kind of tell he's like a no B.S. guy. He's going to tell you what he wants, how he thinks and just be up front.”

— Zaven Collins, Linebacker

“The whole point is that everything is a big deal. How about we just figure out how we get in the freaking huddle and we are all on the same page, because if the first group isn't on the same page, well then the rest of the people can't follow along. I think that's a big deal.”

— Hjalte Froholdt, Center

What’s next

The Cardinals will continue their voluntary offseason program, with LaFleur working to instill his disciplined approach and attention to detail as the team aims to rebound from a 3-14 season.

The takeaway

After a dismal 2025 campaign, the Cardinals are hoping new head coach Mike LaFleur's no-nonsense style and emphasis on accountability can help the team avoid the self-inflicted mistakes that plagued them in the past. Establishing a culture of focus on the little things will be crucial as Arizona looks to get back to winning football games.