Early Thursday, ahead of the 2025 NFL draft, former Arizona Cardinals quarterback Matt Leinart issued an unexpected apology on social media to the Cardinals fans, reflecting on his time with the team.
Leinart shared a selfie video from Lambeau Field, stating, “This message is to all the Arizona Cardinals fans. We are here in Green Bay, Wisconsin for the draft and honestly, it brings back a lot of great memories.”
Reflecting on his career, Leinart noted, “(In) 2006 I was drafted 10th overall to Arizona. It really truly changed my life forever. I just wanted to tell all you fans, the Bidwills, and everybody in that organization that … I’m sorry. Truly I’m sorry it didn’t work out. It’s a shame.”
Leinart’s career with the Cardinals began with high expectations. Drafted the same year the team signed running back Edgerrin James and opened the State Farm Stadium, Leinart was brought in as the starting quarterback after taking over for a struggling Kurt Warner in the 2006 season. Nevertheless, Warner later reclaimed his position, leading the Cardinals to a Super Bowl appearance.
Despite the team’s achievements under Warner, Leinart’s career did not progress as hoped. After Warner’s retirement before the 2010 season, Leinart was unable to secure the starting role over Derek Anderson. Then-coach Ken Whisenhunt eventually released Leinart before the season began, opting for rookies Max Hall and John Skelton as backups instead.
Leinart’s recent address to the Cardinals fans rekindled memories from 2006 when fans eagerly anticipated his performance following his draft selection.
Pete Vander Stoep/Arizona Cardinals
