Cardinals should have made in-season coaching change

NFL teams often face decisions regarding the future of their coaches and general managers before the end of a losing season. Despite public claims from owners that decisions are made only after the season ends, evidence suggests plans are often in place beforehand. The Atlanta Falcons, for instance, quickly terminated coach Raheem Morris and GM Terry Fontenot, indicating premeditated decisions.

The Arizona Cardinals faced a similar situation with head coach Jonathan Gannon during a nine-game losing streak, culminating in a franchise-worst 14-loss season. Speculation about Gannon's job security arose following consecutive blowout losses. However, the Cardinals kept their plans quiet, with no reports of Gannon's impending dismissal emerging before the season's end.

This approach contrasts with teams like the Packers, Titans, and Giants, who have previously opted for early dismissals to begin the search for replacements. Early firings allow teams to interview available candidates and conduct background checks without media leaks. The Cardinals' decision to maintain secrecy until the end of