Vikings reach contract extension with DC Brian Flores

Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Vikings reach contract extension with defensive coordinator Brian Flores

By Andrew Kulha | Last updated Jan 21, 2026 8:37 PM ET

The Minnesota Vikings have come to an agreement with defensive coordinator Brian Flores.

Flores, the former head coach of the Miami Dolphins, has become one of the best, if not the best, defensive coordinators in the NFL. He's aggressive, creative and a headache to game-plan against. The problem for the Vikings is that heading into this 2026 offseason, Flores was no longer under contract.

That's no longer the case, though, as the Vikings announced on Wednesday evening that they've given the defensive coordinator a contract extension.

"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," said head coach Kevin O'Connell 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."

FLO!!!

The #Vikings have signed Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores to a contract extension.

: https://t.co/vQOhYZmNq6 pic.twitter.com/LncdfXrgze
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) January 22, 2026

Brian Flores has been an elite defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings

The exact terms of Flores' extension are unknown, but this is without a doubt a big move for the Vikings as they look to compete in the stacked NFC North with the Chicago Bears, Green Bay Packers and Detroit Lions.

In three seasons as the defensive coordinator for Minnesota, the Vikings have held their opponents to 19.2 points and 317.1 yards per game. That points-per-game mark is second-best in the NFL over this span.

As mentioned, Minnesota's defense is aggressive and opportunistic. The Vikings have totaled 52 forced fumbles under Flores, which is the second-most in the NFL. They've also notched 51 fumble recoveries, 43 interceptions and 73 total defensive takeaways (fifth-best in the NFL).

Notably, Flores is a candidate for the head-coaching openings with the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers. He could take one of those jobs, but if not, he'll be in Minnesota to stay for the foreseeable future.

Andrew Kulha

Andrew Kulha is probably the only sports writer you know who also doubles as a mortician. Spooky! @KulhaSports

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