Live Update: Brian Flores Likely Staying with the Vikings in 2025
This offseason brought plenty of speculation about Brian Flores, the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, potentially being hired as a head coach elsewhere. Fans of the purple and gold, however, are breathing a sigh of relief as it appears increasingly likely that Flores will remain in Minnesota for the 2025 season.
Flores, who hasn’t served as a head coach since the 2021 NFL season with the Miami Dolphins, was rumored to be on several teams’ radar. During his three seasons in Miami, he posted a 24-25 record but failed to lead the team to the postseason. Despite the initial buzz around his availability this offseason, things have taken a quieter turn.
Key Updates on Coaching Vacancies
Several head coaching positions around the league have already been filled, making it less likely for Flores to find the “right opportunity” he has said would entice him to leave Minnesota:
- Chicago Bears: Hired Ben Johnson, the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions.
- New England Patriots: Appointed Mike Vrabel as their new head coach.
- Dallas Cowboys: Started their second round of interviews, which notably do not include Flores.
With these moves, only a few teams—New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, and Las Vegas Raiders—remain in the market for a head coach. However, sources like Adam Schefter suggest Flores isn’t a leading candidate for these roles. For instance, the Jacksonville Jaguars, previously seen as a potential suitor, have advanced to their second round of interviews with Patrick Graham, Robert Saleh, and Liam Coen in the spotlight.
“The door seems to be closed on the job in Florida,” Adam Schefter reported on X.
Minnesota Vikings’ Defense Gets a Boost
For the Vikings, this is shaping up to be great news. Under Kevin O’Connell, Flores has been a stabilizing force for the defense, avoiding the controversies that clouded his time in Miami. The longer teams pass on Flores, the greater the odds he remains in U.S. Bank Stadium next season.
It’s worth noting that Flores has been selective about his next step, saying he would only leave Minnesota for a head coaching role that aligns with his vision. Considering the current vacancies, it’s increasingly unlikely that any of them will check those boxes.
Looking Ahead to 2025
While the possibility of a last-minute development cannot be ruled out, all signs point to Flores continuing to lead the Vikings’ defense in 2025. This stability could prove vital as Minnesota looks to build on its recent progress and aim for postseason success. Stay tuned for further updates as this story unfolds.
