Vikings DC Brian Flores signs contract but still head-coaching candidate

Field Level Media|published: 01/21/2026, 9:57pm EST

Jan 4, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores looks on against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images

The Minnesota Vikings announced a contract extension on Wednesday for defensive coordinator Brian Flores, contingent on him not landing a head-coaching job in the current cycle.

Flores, a former head coach of the Miami Dolphins and regarded as one of the league's top defensive coordinators, is a candidate for vacancies with the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. He also interviewed for the Washington Commanders' opening for a DC but now will not make a lateral move.

"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."

Flores, who turns 45 next month, has been the Vikings' defensive coordinator for three seasons. They ranked third in total defense (282.6 yards per game) in 2025 after ranking No. 16 in each of the previous two seasons. Minnesota was second in 2025 in passing defense (158.5), 21st in rushing defense (124.1) and seventh in fewest points allowed per game (19.6).

His three-year contract expired last week, opening options for Flores with other franchises.

Flores was 24-25 as head coach of the Dolphins from 2019-21. Since then, he has been a senior defensive assistant and linebackers coach for the Steelers (2022) and the defensive coordinator for the Vikings since 2023.

He filed a lawsuit against the NFL and several teams in early 2022 after he was fired by Miami and interviewed for other jobs. He claimed that the league was "rife with racism," particularly in hiring and promoting of Black coaches. The lawsuit remains in the court system and the league is seeking for the case to move to private arbitration.

--Field Level Media