Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
This offseason, there should be an decent level of turnover for the Minnesota Vikings. Changes have to be made when you fail so drastically to meet expectations like they did this year. At 4-8, and driving towards a top 10 draft pick, new voices will be needed within the organization.
It’s unlikely that head coach Kevin O’Connell will be going anywhere, but general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah might be where things start. Closer to the field, KOC will probably shuffle some things around, but he definitely wants to keep defensive coordinator Brian Flores.
Brian Flores could stick with Minnesota Vikings
Over the past few seasons, Brian Flores has found his way into the head coaching carousel. Formerly the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, Flores has appeared as a legitimate candidate due to his defensive prowess. It hasn’t happened, though, and he does still have an active lawsuit against the league…The Athletic’s Dianna Russini doesn’t see him landing one this cycle either.
Expect these assistant coaches to garner serious looks in the upcoming coaching cycle: Chiefs OC Matt Nagy, 49ers DC Robert Saleh, Colts DC Lou Anarumo, Broncos DC Vance Joseph, Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver, Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak, Rams DC Chris Shula, Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury, Packers DC Jeff Hafley, Bills OC Joe Brady and Jags DC Anthony Campanile.
Since 2011, at least five head-coaching vacancies have popped up each cycle. Right now? Only two teams have openings: the Giants and Titans. That number will go up. There are no guarantees these jobs will come open, but many around the league are asking questions about the Atlanta Falcons, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals, in addition to the Raiders.
Diana Russini – The Atheltic
That’s 11 different candidates named by Russini, and more than a couple of them have been head coaches before. Of note, Brian Flores’ name is not among those mentioned.
It has been a constant for Flores to be among those interviewed, only to not get the job. He satisfies the Rooney Rule, requiring teams to interview a minority candidate, but hasn’t been given the keys to drive, which is sort of a main part of his lawsuit. It could be that organizations are unwilling (or feel unable) to hire a coach actively suing the league as well.
Minnesota is 10th in overall team defense. Flores continues to scheme chaotically, and the pressure has held opposing offenses to the fifth lowest passing yards per game. The Minnesota Vikings have been gashed on the ground, however, and that has been disappointing considering the additions of Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen.
At any rate, Flores being overlooked for a head coaching position would once again benefit Minnesota. He runs a strong unit, and has been a big asset to O’Connell’s staff. The longer he stays in the same spot, the better off the Minnesota Vikings are.
Mentioned in this article: Brian Flores
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