EAGAN, Minn. (AP) — The Minnesota Vikings have signed Brian Flores to a contract extension that ensures the defensive coordinator will return for the 2026 season if he is not hired as a head coach, the team announced on Wednesday.
The Vikings have allowed an average of 19.2 points in Flores’ first three seasons as defensive coordinator, the second-fewest in the NFL.
The Vikings allowed an average of only 105.4 rushing yards per game from 2023-25 under Flores, the fifth-fewest in the league, including a league-low 3.9 yards per rush.
Meanwhile, Flores' defenses have avoided giving up big plays. The Vikings' 147 plays allowed of 20 or more yards the last three years are the fewest in the league.
“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 coach Kevin O’Connell said in a statement released by the team.
“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.”
Before Flores took over the unit, Minnesota ranked 31st in total defense in 2022. The defense ranked 16th in 2023 and 2024, and third while allowing 282.6 yards per game in 2025, trailing only Houston and Denver.
The Vikings ranked second in pass defense in 2025, allowing 158.5 yards per game.
Three Vikings defenders were selected to the 2025 NFL Pro Bowl: outside linebackers Jonathan Greenard and Andrew Van Ginkel and cornerback Byron Murphy Jr. Each earned his first Pro Bowl honor.
AP NFL: https://apnews.com/hub/NFL
Copyright 2026 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.
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