Mike LaFleur wife and kids come into focus as the Elmhurst alum is officially named Arizona Cardinals head coach on February 4, 2026, marking a historic NFL milestone for the LaFleur family.
Mike LaFleur’s wife and kids have come into the spotlight following his major career breakthrough, as the former Elmhurst University quarterback was officially named head coach of the Arizona Cardinals on February 4, 2026.
An alum of Elmhurst University, LaFleur makes history as the first Bluejay to lead an NFL franchise and joins his brother, Matt LaFleur, as one of only a few sibling head coaches in league history.
As he begins his tenure in Arizona and assembles his coaching staff, including the hiring of Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, interest has grown not only in his football résumé but also in his family life away from the field.
Mike LaFleur’s Wife, Lauren L. Ball, and Their Marriage
Mike LaFleur’s wife, Lauren LaFleur (née Lauren L. Ball), has largely stayed out of the public eye despite her husband’s steady rise through the NFL coaching ranks.
The couple has been married since July 2010, a milestone that reflects a long-standing partnership built well before Mike reached the highest levels of professional football.
Mike LaFleur, a native of Mount Pleasant, Michigan, met Lauren years before his national coaching profile took shape.
While the couple has never publicly shared detailed accounts of how they first met, their relationship dates back to Mike’s early adult years, including the period surrounding his college football career at Elmhurst College.
Their wedding in July 2010 came during a formative stage of his life, just as he was transitioning from playing to coaching.
Since then, Lauren LaFleur has remained a consistent presence behind the scenes. In contrast to most NFL wives, she has a low profile and has no confirmed public social media account, which is a decision that supports the privacy-seeking behavior of the couple
As a result, information regarding her career has not been leaked out in the media, which serves to support the family in their quest to ensure that personal issues do not interfere with the football duties of Mike
Family has always played a central role in LaFleur’s life. He frequently emphasizes that his support system off the field is just as important as preparation on the field.
Mike and Lauren have two children, whom they have consciously not put in the limelight.
Their move to protect their children against media coverage is a reflection of what most NFL coaches have done by focusing on the normalcy and stability of their homes despite the demands of the league.
Mike LaFleur Family Background and Coaching Roots
Born on March 3, 1987, in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, Mike LaFleur was raised in a household where coaching and athletics were part of everyday life.
His father, Danny LaFleur, has long served as a head coach at West Middle School in Mount Pleasant, while his mother, Kristi LaFleur, built an extensive coaching background across softball, basketball, track, and cheerleading.
As a result, sports were never far from the family conversation.
Naturally, that environment shaped both LaFleur brothers. Mike is the younger brother of Matt LaFleur, the head coach of the Green Bay Packers.
Their career paths led them to different destinations, but now they have the unique privilege of being NFL head coaches simultaneously, a fact that speaks to their similar upbringing and work ethic.
Although the profession is competitive, the family relationship is based on support and not on competition.
Kristi LaFleur once acknowledged the challenge of cheering for two sons in the same league, saying:
“It’s different because I’m the mom, and as a mom, you want your kids to be happy.”
Kristi Lafleur
Meanwhile, Mike carved out his own identity in the sport at Elmhurst University, where he played on both offense and defense and later served as a team captain.
Those formative years not only shaped his understanding of the game but also laid the foundation for his transition into coaching.
Arizona Cardinals Name Mike LaFleur Head Coach
Mike LaFleur’s professional profile took a major leap on February 4, 2026, when the Arizona Cardinals officially named him the franchise’s 44th head coach.
The appointment marked a historic moment, as LaFleur became the first Elmhurst University alum to lead an NFL team and one of only a handful of NCAA Division III graduates currently serving as head coaches in the league.
“We’re so proud of Coach LaFleur, and will always be grateful for his contributions to Elmhurst University as a student-athlete and coach.”
Troy D. VanAken, President of Elmhurst University
Soon after his hiring, LaFleur wasted little time shaping his staff. On February 5, 2026, Arizona brought in Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, reuniting Hackett with the LaFleur family after previous stops in Green Bay and New York.
Importantly, LaFleur confirmed during his introductory press conference that he will call offensive plays himself, signaling a hands-on approach as a first-time head coach.
Previously an offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams and New York Jets, LaFleur now steps into his biggest role yet.
As free agency approaches and expectations build in Arizona, his early moves suggest a clear vision for both leadership and offensive identity heading into the 2026 NFL season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Mike LaFleur a good coach?
LaFleur is generally considered a powerful offensive thinker who has worked under proven NFL leaders and coordinated offenses capable of competing in the playoffs before being given his first head coaching opportunity in 2026.
Are Matt and Mike LaFleur twins?
No. Matt LaFleur was born in 1979, while Mike LaFleur was born on March 3, 1987. They are brothers but not twins.
When did Mike LaFleur become an NFL head coach?
LaFleur was hired as the Arizona Cardinals’ head coach in early February 2026, marking his first head coaching position in the NFL.
What teams has Mike LaFleur coached before Arizona?
Before joining the Cardinals, LaFleur coached with the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, New York Jets, and Los Angeles Rams.
Will Mike LaFleur call plays as the Cardinals’ head coach?
Yes. LaFleur confirmed during his introductory press conference that he will handle offensive play-calling for the Cardinals.
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