Could the Arizona Cardinals be the next stop for quarterback Aaron Rodgers? While the Pittsburgh Steelers are currently the only team believed to be in the running for Rodgers' services in 2026, there are some intriguing connections to be made with the Cardinals. The most obvious link is offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who was hired by the Broncos in 2022, a time when the Packers were reportedly ready to trade Rodgers. However, the trade didn't happen until 2023, by which time Hackett was working for the Jets, who then acquired Rodgers. Now, Hackett has landed in Arizona, where the Cardinals will need a quarterback if/when Kyler Murray is traded or released. There are more connections than Hackett. New coach Mike LaFleur most recently served as offensive coordinator of the Rams, and Rodgers was reportedly the Plan B for the Rams if Matthew Stafford had left in 2025. LaFleur's brother, Matt, coached Rodgers for four years in Green Bay, and while their relationship was strained at times, Rodgers' recent praise for Matt left him 'speechless'. However, the Cardinals are the least competitive team in the very competitive NFC West, and it won't be easy for them, with or without Rodgers, to make it to the playoffs. Whether Rodgers or someone else, the Cardinals are likely to be adding a quarterback, and it makes sense to keep an eye on the possibility that they will bring Rodgers to Arizona.
