– Flores update: After Minnesota’s 2025 season, Brian Flores is weighing his next move. On Jan 20, he completed an in-person interview with the Pittsburgh Steelers as part of their search for a new head coach. He’s also drawn interest from the Baltimore Ravens (HC) and has met with the Washington Commanders for a defensive coordinator role. Minnesota’s contract with Flores runs out, but the team hopes to keep him if a head coaching opportunity doesn’t materialize.
– Possible replacements if Flores leaves: If Flores heads elsewhere, Raheem Morris is a name to watch. He has prior connections with the Vikings and a track record of boosting defenses (Falcons’ 2025 defense improved significantly with Ulbrich as DC, and Morris would bring head-coaching charisma). The big questions: how much credit goes to Morris vs Ulbrich, and whether he’d be the right fit in Minnesota’s scheme.
– Daronte Jones update: Jones is the top internal candidate to succeed Flores, serving as the defensive pass game coordinator and DB coach. He’s also exploring DC opportunities with other teams and has interviewed with several franchises (Bears, Jaguars, Saints; and also Dallas and New York). If Flores leaves, the Vikings would need to manage the timing and opportunity windows carefully, as losing Jones too would add real uncertainty.
– Takeaway: Flores’ head-coaching prospects remain unsettled, with the Steelers in the mix and other suitors lurking. The Vikings are eyeing a careful plan, whether it’s keeping Flores or pivoting to internal options like Jones (or a potential outside hire like Morris). The coming weeks will shape Minnesota’s defensive leadership for 2025 and beyond 📊🏈.
