The Minnesota Vikings defense was right there with the Detroit Lions as one of the worst units in the NFL last season. They needed to fix the unit if they were going to have any hope of competing in 2023, and while an overhaul of personnel wasn’t likely, a change in philosophy could work.
The New-Look Vikings Defense
Rather than run it back with Ed Donatell, who likely could’ve been fired at any point during the 2022 season, Kevin O’Connell turned to defensive guru Brian Flores. The former Miami Dolphins head coach and Bill Belichick discipline brought plenty of respect regarding his abilities to coach a unit.