Former Arizona Cardinals General Manager Steve Keim has publicly criticized team owner Michael Bidwill, calling into question his leadership and decision-making since taking over the franchise from his father, Bill Bidwill.
Keim, who served as the Cardinals’ GM from 2013 to 2022, did not hold back in his remarks, which have sparked discussions about the organization’s current direction.
Keim, speaking on a recent podcast, expressed frustration with what he sees as a lack of consistency and accountability within the Cardinals’ leadership structure. “When you have an owner who’s not aligned with the right values and who doesn’t listen to football people, it’s hard to sustain success,” Keim said. “Michael’s leadership has been questionable at best since he took over.”
The former GM highlighted several issues he believes have hindered the team’s progress, including a revolving door of coaches and personnel changes that he claims were driven more by personal preferences than sound football strategy. Keim also suggested that Bidwill’s decision-making style has created an environment of instability, making it difficult for the franchise to build a winning culture.
Michael Bidwill took over the Cardinals’ ownership in 2007 following the passing of his father. Under his leadership, the team has experienced some high points, including a Super Bowl appearance in the 2008 season and several playoff runs during Keim’s tenure. However, the organization has struggled in recent years, marked by inconsistent performances, coaching changes, and a lack of playoff success.
Keim’s comments come during a challenging period for the Cardinals. The team is currently in a rebuilding phase under head coach Jonathan Gannon and has faced criticism from fans and analysts for its inability to sustain success. Questions about ownership’s commitment to long-term stability have only added to the scrutiny.
“When you look at successful organizations in the NFL, there’s a common thread: strong ownership that empowers its football operations,” Keim noted. “That’s something the Cardinals have been missing for a long time.”
Bidwill has yet to respond publicly to Keim’s remarks, but the comments are likely to reignite debates about his leadership and the direction of the franchise. As the Cardinals navigate another difficult season, the pressure on Bidwill to prove he can lead the team back to relevance is only growing.
For fans, Keim’s words may confirm long-held frustrations about the team’s struggles. Whether this public critique prompts any changes within the organization remains to be seen, but it has undoubtedly put the spotlight back on Michael Bidwill’s stewardship of the Arizona Cardinals.