Vikings Push Aggressively to Keep Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores
The Minnesota Vikings are working hard to retain defensive coordinator Brian Flores for the 2026 season, even as the respected defensive strategist interviews for NFL head coaching positions. Coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah expressed their commitment during a Tuesday news conference at TCO Performance Center, signaling that keeping Flores remains a top organizational priority.
“We’ve been really aggressive and Flo knows exactly how we feel about him,” O’Connell said. “At the same time, we want to be really supportive. I think he’s more than deserving. We’re talking almost every day and just making sure he knows the intent of where we’re at to have him as our defensive coordinator.”
Elite Defense Built Under Flores Leadership
Flores has orchestrated one of the league’s premier defenses during his three seasons in Minnesota. The Vikings finished the 2025 season with the No. 2 passing defense in the NFL, allowing just 158.5 yards per game. The unit recorded 49 sacks and eight interceptions, anchored by strong individual performances from Blake Cashman (114 tackles), Dallas Turner (eight sacks, four forced fumbles), and Andrew Van Ginkel (seven sacks).
The 44-year-old former Miami Dolphins head coach is widely respected across the NFL as one of the game’s premier defensive minds. His influence extends beyond on-field performance—Flores has had significant input on personnel decisions, making his potential departure a substantial loss for Minnesota’s defensive infrastructure.
Head Coaching Opportunities Create Uncertainty
Flores’ future remains fluid as the Ravens, Commanders, and other teams with open head coaching positions explore his availability. The Baltimore Ravens completed an interview with Flores on Tuesday, making him the seventh candidate to interview for the position following John Harbaugh’s departure. The Commanders have also expressed interest in interviewing Flores for a role on Dan Quinn’s coaching staff.
However, Flores’ contract expires this week, and sources indicate the Vikings remain confident he will return unless he secures a head coaching role. O’Connell emphasized his optimism: “I have a lot of confidence we’re going to be able to get something done with him as our defensive coordinator.”
Flores Open to Staying in Minnesota
The coordinator has reportedly kept no secrets about his desire to remain with the Vikings, according to O’Connell. Earlier this month, Flores indicated that if it were purely a football decision, he would have already agreed to return. The Vikings have been attempting to extend Flores’ contract since the previous summer, suggesting a potential agreement may already be in place.
The organization’s confidence stems from both the professional relationship and Flores’ impact on the team’s success. The Vikings finished the 2025 season on a five-game winning streak, with the defense serving as a cornerstone of that momentum.
