The 2016 Incarnate Word Cardinals football team represented the University of the Incarnate Word in the 2016 NCAA Division I FCS football season. This was the Cardinals' final transition season of collegiate football at the FCS level. They were led by fifth-year head coach Larry Kennan. They played their home games at Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium. They finished the season 3–8, 3–6 in Southland play to finish in a tie for eighth place.