As the 2025 NFL season concludes, the Arizona Cardinals begin a critical offseason marked by uncertainty surrounding both their head coach and starting quarterback. After a year of transition and rebuilding efforts, the franchise must now evaluate the leadership of head coach Jonathan Gannon and the long-term role of quarterback Kyler Murray.
Jonathan Gannon completed his second season as head coach in 2025 after being hired in 2023. The team showed signs of improvement but struggled to consistently compete within the NFC West. Arizona’s season featured flashes of potential balanced by recurring issues on both sides of the ball. The ownership group, led by Michael Bidwill, now faces a decision on whether to retain Gannon for a third year or pursue a different direction to accelerate the team’s development.
Gannon was originally brought in for his defensive expertise and a vision of sustainable team culture. However, questions remain about the team’s progress—particularly on offense, where execution and consistency were ongoing concerns. Key injuries, including those earlier in the season, as well as a reshuffled roster, contributed to the uneven performance.
At quarterback, Kyler Murray’s future with the Cardinals is also under review. The former No. 1 overall pick returned to play in the second half of the season after recovering from a 2023 ACL injury. While Murray displayed some of his characteristic athleticism and playmaking ability, inconsistencies and concerns about scheme fit persisted. The team will have to determine whether to reaffirm its commitment to Murray or explore other options, including the upcoming NFL Draft, where Arizona holds a high pick.
This offseason, Arizona will also need to assess its salary cap situation, potential free-agent acquisitions, and the development of young players. With foundational decisions looming, the direction chosen in the coming months will play a defining role in shaping the team’s trajectory heading into the 2026 season and beyond.
The Cardinals, with questions at key leadership positions, enter a pivotal period that will influence on-field performance and organizational stability for years to come.
