Mack Wilson Sr. and Jacoby Brissett spent nearly a month exchanging daily texts, trying to predict who would become the next head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. When Mike LaFleur was named to the position, Wilson immediately reached out, only to receive a FaceTime call from LaFleur moments later.
“It was coach Mike and (when) he picked up, I was super juiced,” Wilson said. “For him to pick up the phone and call me right away, it was super dope and it just shows how much he cares and how much he’s ready to get to work with his guys.”
LaFleur’s introduction as head coach saw several Cardinals players connecting with him directly. During his first press conference, LaFleur addressed nearly 20 players in attendance: “The (calls) that fired me up the most was coming from you guys,” he said. “It got me just more excited to get going, so I appreciate you guys and can’t wait to get to work.”
Wilson traveled by flight on short notice after receiving a text about the press conference. The event generated a sense of anticipation among both players and staff in an atmosphere that general manager Monti Ossenfort described as necessary for selecting the right candidate.
Michael Wilson, another player who met LaFleur during his interview process, spoke about the uncertainty leading up to the hire but expressed optimism once it was made official. “It was a big weight off (our shoulders),” Michael Wilson said. “A couple of my teammates texted me and were really excited about the hire. I think maybe halfway through the coaching hire I kind of had an inkling that Mike was going to be the guy. But it was a big weight off of our shoulders and now we have some sort of direction going forward.”
Players are interested in seeing how LaFleur will develop offensive strategies for key team members such as All-Pro tight end Trey McBride and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.
“He’s extremely passionate about the game of football,” Michael Wilson said. “I’m sure everyone can feel that it oozes out of his whole persona that he’s dead serious about football.”
LaFleur has not yet outlined specific plans for on-field changes but emphasized building relationships within the organization as he steps into his first head coaching role.
“I promise I’ll pour it all for you guys every single day,” LaFleur told the team.
Mack Wilson commented on player support for their new coach: “Having the guys here today shows coach LaFleur that we’re behind him,” Mack said. “I feel like it gives him a sense of confidence and juice that we’re fired up.”
The Arizona Cardinals are based in Glendale, Arizona, represent the Phoenix area, and play in the NFC West division of the National Football League. The team is recognized as one of the oldest continuously operating professional football franchises in America since its origins in Chicago in 1898 official website.
Jeremy Chen/Arizona Cardinals
Cardinals linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. addresses media after Mike LaFleur’s introductory press conference.