Brian Flores gets new Vikings contract — but it’s not a guarantee he returns

The Vikings signed defensive coordinator Brian Flores to a contract extension on Wednesday, the team announced. 

The deal means that if Flores, who was in the running for head coaching jobs with the Steelers and Ravens, doesn’t get a head coaching job he will be back in Minnesota as the DC, according to multiple reports. 

“Brian has a unique ability to connect with players, understand their skill sets, and put them in positions to maximize their impact on the field,” Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement. “The identity of our defense is a reflection of his leadership and preparation. On a personal level, I’ve really valued the relationship we’ve built over the last three years, and that shared trust, alignment and high standard will continue to be critical to our success.”

In addition to the interest in bringing Flores in as a head coach, teams have shown interest in him as a defensive coordinator, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero reported. 

Flores interviewed with the Commanders for their defensive coordinator opening, according to the report. He was previously linked to the Cowboys’ DC position. 

As long as Flores doesn’t get a head coaching gig, it will be his fourth season with the Vikings after he joined the organization in 2023, when he took over for Ed Donatell.

Flores has been credited with helping transform Minnesota’s defense, which allowed the third-fewest yards per game this season with just 282.6. 

Only the Texans and Broncos allowed fewer in 2025. 

The Vikings had allowed just 19.6 points per game and amassed the fifth-most sacks in the NFL with 49. 

Before Flores arrived in Minnesota, the Vikings’ defense ranked 31st at the end of the 2022 season and it has steadily improved over his time with the franchise. In 2024, he was named a finalist for the Associated Press Assistant Coach of the Year.