Cardinals Retain Nick Rallis as Defensive Coordinator

Rallis will remain in his role under new head coach Mike LaFleur, continuing a connection to the Packers' coaching staff.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Arizona Cardinals will retain Nick Rallis as their defensive coordinator, despite the team's head coaching change. Rallis previously worked with new Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur when they were both on the Philadelphia Eagles' staff. This move maintains continuity on the defensive side of the ball for the Cardinals as they transition to a new head coach.

Why it matters

Keeping Rallis as defensive coordinator provides stability for the Cardinals' defense as the team undergoes a head coaching change. Rallis has familiarity with the defensive scheme and personnel, which can help ease the transition to the new coaching staff led by Mike LaFleur.

The details

Nick Rallis was the defensive coordinator for the Cardinals under former head coach Jonathan Gannon. When Gannon left to become the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, many expected Rallis to potentially join Gannon's staff in Green Bay as a linebackers coach. However, the Cardinals have decided to retain Rallis as their defensive coordinator under new head coach Mike LaFleur. LaFleur and Rallis previously worked together on the Philadelphia Eagles' coaching staff.

  • Rallis was the defensive coordinator for the Cardinals under former head coach Jonathan Gannon.
  • Gannon left the Cardinals to become the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers.

The players

Nick Rallis

The defensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, who will be retained in that role under the team's new head coach Mike LaFleur.

Jonathan Gannon

The former head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, who left the team to become the defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers.

Mike LaFleur

The new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, who previously worked with Nick Rallis on the Philadelphia Eagles' coaching staff.

Matt LaFleur

The head coach of the Green Bay Packers, who is the older brother of new Arizona Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur.

Nathaniel Hackett

The new offensive coordinator for the Arizona Cardinals, who previously worked with the Green Bay Packers.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The decision to retain Nick Rallis as defensive coordinator provides continuity for the Cardinals' defense as the team transitions to a new head coach. Rallis' familiarity with the defensive scheme and personnel can help ease the transition and maintain stability on that side of the ball.