The Arizona Cardinals have intensified their search for the right head coach. So far, they reached out to a few big names, but snubbed others.
The Arizona Cardinals are relentlessly vetting head coaches in pursuit to get it right this time, something they haven’t done much of in recent years. In 2018, they suffered through the one-year debacle that was Steve Wilks, before enduring four seasons of fools gold under Kliff Kingsbury.
Now, they have several high-profile coaches on their shortlist, including Frank Reich, DeMeco Ryans, and Ejiro Evero. They also have questionable names, like Vance Joseph and Aaron Glenn.
There are also a few snubs from the shortlist who they would do well to eventually reach out to and at least request an interview. Here are three names that come to mind.
1 – Eric Bieniemy
Some have said Bieniemy has poor interview skills; others have said he’s holding out for the right job. Regardless of why Eric Bieniemy hasn’t graced the sidelines as a head coach, the Arizona Cardinals could use one of the game’s best offensive minds on their sidelines.
Bieniemy has been the Kansas City Chiefs offensive coordinator for five seasons and has always managed the unit well. The 53-year-old could work wonders with a dual threat quarterback in Kyler Murray plus budding talents like Greg Dortch (if he re-signs), Rondale Moore (if he stays healthy), and Trey McBride, among others.
2 – Shane Steichen
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has gone from above-average starter to MVP candidate within a single season. Much of that has to do with Steichen, who also had success with Justin Herbert in 2020.
Given Steichen’s proven track record with young quarterbacks, it’s shocking that the Arizona Cardinals haven’t requested an interview with the 37-year-old. But if Steichen’s Eagles can hoist the Lombardi and the Redbirds haven’t yet made their decision, he could be a late candidate.
3 – Shane Bowen
Bowen is perhaps the most obscure name on the list, but the defensive coordinator has ties to general manager Monti Ossenfort, much like Brian Flores, who many regard as a favorite to land the job in the desert. Bowen’s Titans ranked just 23rd in total defense, but they allowed just 359 points, or 21.1 per game, in 2022.
They were also number one in rushing defense, allowing just 1,307 yards and 3.4 yards per carry. The unit also allowed a scoring percentage of just 33.9%, which ranked ninth in the league. Sure, the 32nd-ranked pass defense is a concern, but the Cardinals current strength lies in their secondary, so it’s likely Bowen will have an easier time in the desert.
(Statistics provided by Pro-Football-Reference)
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