Multi-row array RF coil with minimized couplings using birdcage coils

Various embodiments of the present disclosure are directed towards a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) radio frequency (RF) coil array configured to operate in at least one of a transmit mode or a receive mode on a cylindrical former. The MRI RF coil array includes at first row of RF coil elements. Each row of RF coil elements includes at least three RF coil elements that circumferentially surround a cylindrical axis. The MRI RF coil array also includes a first birdcage coil that circumferentially surrounds the first row of RF coil elements. Each RF coil element of the first row is configured to inductively couple to the first birdcage coil and to each other RF coil elements. The first birdcage coil has an impedance configured to negate inductive coupling between the RF coil elements of the first row.