The Minnesota Vikings have solidified their coaching staff by re-signing defensive coordinator Brian Flores through 2026, provided he does not accept a head coaching position elsewhere in the near future. Flores originally joined the Vikings before the 2023 season under a three-year contract, which recently came to an end. Despite the expiration of this deal, the Vikings had been actively seeking an extension prior to its conclusion.
Flores received at least one interview for a defensive coordinator position with the Washington Commanders last week, but Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell expressed confidence that Flores would remain with the team unless he were to secure a head coaching role. O’Connell praised Flores’ ability to connect with players and craft defensive strategies that have significantly impacted the team’s performance on the field.
Under Flores’ leadership, the Vikings have emerged as one of the top defenses in the NFL, ranking third in expected points added per play during the 2024 season and eighth in 2025. His innovative schemes and defensive acumen have made him a sought-after candidate in the league, leading to his involvement in interviews for head coaching roles with teams such as the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers this month.
Prior to his tenure with the Vikings, Flores served as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins from 2019 to 2021. In 2022, after his dismissal from the Dolphins, he filed a lawsuit against the NFL and several teams, alleging systemic racism in hiring practices that adversely affected Black coaches. This lawsuit is currently in limbo as the league seeks to move it to private arbitration.
Flores’ return to Minnesota is seen as beneficial for the Vikings, as his expertise and leadership are expected to continue shaping their defensive strategies and enhancing team performance in the coming years.