Key facts
- Brian Flores has signed a new contract to remain the Minnesota Vikings' defensive coordinator.
- The Vikings defense is undergoing a significant youth movement.
- Several key defensive players, including Jonathan Greenard and Harrison Smith, were absent from minicamp.
- Flores was awarded the George Halas Award for overcoming adversity.
- Flores is involved in a racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL, with a trial now likely after the Supreme Court declined to intervene.
Brian Flores has signed a new contract to continue as the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, entering his fourth season with the team. This upcoming season will see a significant shift towards a younger defense, with several key players absent from minicamp, including edge rusher Jonathan Greenard, defensive linemen Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, and veteran safety Harrison Smith.
Flores acknowledged the changes, stating, "This group in 2026 is going to be very different than 2025 and 2024 and 2023 and every other year before that, so that’s just our league." While the door remains open for Smith to return for a 15th season, the coaching staff is preparing contingency plans. Jay Ward is expected to see increased playing time at safety, and Dallas Turner will be a full-time starter at edge rusher. The interior defensive line will be anchored by Jalen Redmond, with contributions from younger players and rookies.
Separately, Flores was honored with the George Halas Award by the Professional Football Writers of America for overcoming adversity. This recognition comes as Flores' racial discrimination lawsuit against the NFL proceeds, following the Supreme Court's decision not to intervene, which paves the way for a trial. Flores, who was a head coaching finalist for the Ravens and Steelers this year, declined to comment on his legal case when asked about the award, stating only that it was an honor to be recognized.