Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr is secure in himself and his play

Since May 8, 2014, when they were united as top rookie draft pick and first-year head coach, Anthony Barr and Mike Zimmer have resurrected the NFL's worst defense, butted heads over Zimmer telling reporters Barr "tends to coast," expressed a mutual desire to continue their partnership beyond 2018, and now face the possibility of Sunday being their last regular-season game together.

"Like I told Anthony, 'You were my first draft pick, so I have a certain affinity to you because you started how we elevated this Vikings program,' " Zimmer said. "I always want what's best for the player. But I'm also selfish. I want Anthony back."

First things first. Before Barr's contract expires, coach and…