The Minnesota Vikings are gearing up for a busy offseason as they aim to improve in 2026. A major step in that direction came earlier this week when the team secured defensive coordinator Brian Flores with a new contract. However, despite this deal, Flores remains a candidate for several head coaching positions around the NFL, meaning his contract could be rendered moot if he accepts a new role elsewhere.
Recently, former Vikings coach Mike Pettine shared insights that may cast doubt on Flores’s prospects for such openings. Pettine, who resigned from the coaching staff at the age of 59, had spent four years with the Vikings, serving as both the assistant head coach and outside linebackers coach. His unexpected retirement raised questions about his relationship with Flores, and it appears there were significant differences between the two.
Flores has a reputation for being tough on his players, and his intense approach extends to his colleagues. When asked about his time working alongside Flores on the “Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show,” Pettine was non-committal and hinted at underlying tension, saying, “We didn’t see eye-to-eye on a lot of things… I’ll take the high road on that one.”
Despite these comments, it seems increasingly likely that Flores will remain with the Vikings for the 2026 season. While he is still in contention for various head coach positions, leading candidates for those roles have emerged that do not prominently feature Flores. Thus, his recent contract extension with Minnesota suggests a solidifying commitment to the team.
This situation highlights a pattern regarding Flores’s coaching style that has raised eyebrows. Though his strategies yield results on the field, concerns about his interpersonal dynamics may hinder his chances of moving up in the coaching ranks. Nevertheless, with the Vikings’ newfound commitment to Flores, it’s plausible he will continue to lead the team’s defense, possibly facilitating a productive season ahead. The Vikings appear to be making thoughtful moves as they prepare for the future, potentially setting up a strong foundation for upcoming campaigns.