What Vikings Hiring Brian Flores as DC Means for Lions
The Detroit Lions were able to score 58 points combined in their two contests against the Minnesota Vikings in 2022.
After the Vikings' defense struggled all season, the decision was made to part ways with defensive coordinator Ed Donatell after the season concluded.
Despite finishing the regular season with a 13-4 record, the Vikings were bounced from the playoffs by the Giants, losing 31-24.
"I think there were some issues with explosive, big plays," Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell said, following the disappointing loss. "They schematically did some things to maybe take advantage of some things we were doing."
Minnesota's defense allowed four plays of 24 yards or more, and did little to stop quarterback Daniel Jones and running back Saquon Barkley.
More: Lions Hire New Running Backs Coach
According to multiple reports, former Miami Dolphins head coach Brian Flores has accepted the position to become the Vikings' next defensive coordinator.
After spending 11 years with the New England Patriots (2008-2018), Flores was named the 12th Dolphins coach in franchise history.
From 2019 to 2021, Flores secured a record of 24-25. Since his dismissal, he has served as the Pittsburgh Steelers' senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach.
He has never served as a team's defensive coordinator before accepting the Vikings job opening.
"Great coach. Should be a head coach in this league," inside linebacker Myles Jack said, via All Steelers. "Very detailed. Very specific. You know exactly what he expects from you. I enjoy it. You know what you're getting going into each practice. ... I feel like it's having a cheat sheet as a coach."
Safety Terrell Edmunds explained, "He’s a bulldog. Just the way he talks, you can tell that he’s got the military mentality. He wants everything to be on point. He’s not letting anybody slack off. We need that."
The Vikings 31st ranked defense represented their worst ranking on defense since 2013.
With the Lions' offense excelling the second half of the 2022 season, it will be intriguing to see how Flores attempts to limit the offensive weapons.
All Dolphins reporter Alain Poupart indicated, "In a nutshell, great X's and O's guy who will bring an attacking style defense. Looks like a very complex scheme, but one that also can confuse opposing offenses."
Currently, Flores is still involved in a lawsuit against the NFL, due to its employment policies on minority head coaches.
