Arizona Cardinals Head Coach – Jonathan Gannon

Jonathan Gannon, born on January 4, 1983, is an American football coach currently occupying the position of Head Coach at the National Football League (NFL)’s Arizona Cardinals. Prior to his current stint, he has worked as an assistant coach for other prominent NFL teams including Atlanta Falcons, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, Indianapolis Colts, and Philadelphia Eagles.

As an executive:

Jonathan Gannon – Early Life and College Years

Jonathan Gannon hails from Cleveland, Ohio and attended Saint Ignatius High School. He showcased his versatility as a three-sport athlete, achieving notable success in basketball, track, and football.

As a point guard in basketball, Gannon led his team to a state championship victory. In track and field, he emerged as a district champion in hurdling, displaying his athleticism and skill on the track. Additionally, Gannon stood out as a talented wide receiver and defensive back on the football field.

Following his high school career, Gannon continued his academic and athletic journey at the University of Louisville. Unfortunately, his college playing days were cut short due to a career-ending injury. Despite this setback, Gannon remained connected to the football program. He served as a volunteer assistant for Louisville from 2003 to 2005, contributing his knowledge and passion for the game. In the subsequent year, Gannon took on the role of a graduate assistant, further immersing himself in the realm of coaching and player development.

Jonathan Gannon’s early life and collegiate experience laid the foundation for his future in the world of football coaching, setting the stage for the successes that awaited him.

Jonathan Gannon – Coaching Journey

Atlanta Falcons

In 2007, Jonathan Gannon began his coaching career in the NFL as a defensive quality control coach for the Atlanta Falcons. He followed head coach Bobby Petrino from the college ranks to the professional level.

St. Louis Rams

Gannon moved on to the St. Louis Rams in 2009, where he transitioned to the role of a college scout. He was later promoted to a pro scout in 2010. Gannon left the Rams after the 2011 season.

Tennessee Titans

In 2012, Gannon returned to coaching and joined the Tennessee Titans as a defensive quality control coach. He served in this position until 2013, gaining valuable experience in the NFL.

Minnesota Vikings

Gannon joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2014, taking on the roles of assistant defensive backs coach and defensive quality control coach. He stayed with the Vikings for four seasons before departing at the end of the 2017 season.

Indianapolis Colts

In 2018, Gannon was hired by the Indianapolis Colts as their defensive backs and cornerbacks coach. He worked under head coach Frank Reich and remained with the Colts until 2020.

Philadelphia Eagles

In 2021, Jonathan Gannon was hired by the Philadelphia Eagles as their defensive coordinator. However, in Super Bowl LVII, the Eagles blew a ten-point halftime lead, and Gannon’s defensive unit gave up 31 points, resulting in a 38-35 loss. Gannon faced criticism for the team’s defensive performance, particularly for a lack of adjustments in the second half and playing a soft zone defense that allowed the Chiefs to exploit the secondary.

Arizona Cardinals

On February 14, 2023, just two days after the Super Bowl loss, Jonathan Gannon was announced as the new head coach of the Arizona Cardinals. The move marked a new chapter in his coaching career, leading the Cardinals into their future endeavors.

Tampering Controversy

It was revealed on April 27, 2023, that Gannon had interviewed with the Cardinals during the week after the Eagles won the NFC Championship game, which violated the period of permissible conduct. The Eagles front office was reportedly furious with Gannon, believing that he was distracted before the Super Bowl. As a result, the Eagles and Cardinals announced that they had swapped third-round picks in the 2023 NFL Draft, and the Cardinals received the Eagles’ 2024 fifth-round pick.

Jonathan Gannon‘s coaching journey has taken him through various teams in the NFL, with roles in different coaching capacities. Now, as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, he looks to make an impact and steer the team towards success.

Arizona Cardinals Coach