Vikings’ Coaching Staff in High Demand: Daronte Jones and Grant Udinski in the Spotlight
As the NFL coaching carousel spins, Vikings defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator Daronte Jones is drawing attention for potential defensive coordinator roles. After interviewing with the Chicago Bears over the weekend, Jones reportedly spoke with the Jacksonville Jaguars on Monday morning, per NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero.
While the Bears have already filled their vacancy by hiring former Saints and Raiders head coach Dennis Allen, the Jaguars could still make a move. Jones is notably the first candidate to interview for the defensive coordinator role under new offensive-minded head coach Liam Coen.
Should Jones land the Jaguars’ DC job, it would mark a significant loss for the Vikings. Jones has been instrumental in shaping Minnesota’s defensive success, particularly in developing standout players like Byron Murphy Jr., Camryn Bynum, and Josh Metellus. As one of Brian Flores’ top assistants, Jones is highly respected within the organization. His three-year tenure with the Vikings, including a prior stint in 2020 under Mike Zimmer, and his 2021 season as LSU’s defensive coordinator highlight his coaching pedigree.
Grant Udinski: A Rising Star in Demand
Meanwhile, the Vikings’ assistant quarterbacks coach and assistant offensive coordinator, Grant Udinski, is also a hot commodity. At just 28 years old, Udinski is seen as a rising star in the league, having already garnered interest for offensive coordinator positions.
Udinski recently had two interviews with the Seattle Seahawks, emerging as a finalist before the team chose former Vikings and Saints OC Klint Kubiak. He also interviewed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who are replacing Liam Coen after he departed for Jacksonville. Interestingly, there’s speculation that Coen could consider Udinski as an OC candidate for his staff with the Jaguars, according to Alec Lewis.
If Udinski secures an OC position, he’d follow in the footsteps of another young coach: the Bears’ 28-year-old offensive coordinator Declan Doyle, hired just days ago.
What’s Next for Minnesota?
The Vikings face the real possibility of losing both Jones and Udinski to promotions this week, which would leave significant gaps in their coaching staff. Both are pivotal figures within the team and have played key roles in their respective units.
With decisions likely to come by the end of the week, the Vikings must wait and see if Jones and Udinski will remain in Minnesota or take the next steps in their promising coaching careers.