EAGAN, Minn. — Brian Flores took a moment to reflect on his career in the NFL and expressed his aspirations for future head coaching opportunities. However, he emphasized the value and enjoyment he has found in his role as the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. “My time here in Minnesota has been fantastic,” Flores stated. “It would need to be the right situation for me and my family to consider leaving.”
Although he is open to new prospects, Flores will not impose any restrictions on the interview process. During his regular media session on Tuesday, he affirmed his willingness to engage with any team seeking to interview him this offseason. “I plan on engaging in discussions with any team that wants to talk about that position,” he expressed. “I look forward to sharing my football journey when that opportunity arises.”
Flores’s candidacy involves complexities due to the federal lawsuit he initiated against the league almost three years ago. This lawsuit followed his dismissal as head coach of the Miami Dolphins after three seasons and alleges racial discrimination in the hiring practices for top positions within the NFL. As a candidate, he is aware that teams with openings must comply with the Rooney Rule, which mandates that they must interview at least two nonwhite or female candidates from outside their own organization. In his lawsuit, Flores recounted an experience during a 2019 interview with the Denver Broncos that he deemed a “sham interview” intended only to fulfill the Rooney Rule. This insight demonstrates his cautious perspective regarding the hiring process.
“To me, it’s not any different than interviews in any other industry,” Flores commented. “Is the vibe, the energy, the connection conducive to creating a winning atmosphere? There are many factors involved, and achieving the right synergy is crucial.”
As the coaching carousel commenced this week, coinciding with the start of the playoffs, Flores’s successful tenure with Minnesota’s defense has once again put his name in discussions for open coaching positions. His contributions have been significant in leading the Vikings to a commendable 14-3 record, with their next challenge against the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC wild-card round on Monday night. For now, Flores is entirely focused on that game, as NFL policies restrict him from participating in virtual interviews until next week, with in-person meetings allowed only after January 20, unless the Vikings advance to the NFC championship game, which would delay them until January 27.
Currently, six teams are pursuing head coaches: the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, and New York Jets. Reports indicate that the Bears and Jets have expressed interest in interviewing Flores, though they have opted to keep these processes private. Meanwhile, the Jaguars have shared a list of eight candidates they are considering, and Flores’s name was notably absent. When asked about a potential return to the Patriots, where he began his coaching journey, Flores acknowledged his interest. “Being mentioned in these head coaching conversations is an honor that I don’t take lightly,” he said. “However, I pride myself on being able to compartmentalize and prioritize the various aspects of my career.” He was clear that his current focus remains on preparing for the Rams.
Throughout the summer, Flores faced criticism from Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa regarding his coaching methods. While this criticism was challenging for him, Flores views it as a catalyst for personal growth and development. His experiences working alongside Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell and managing a close-knit defense that has seen three players selected for the Pro Bowl and topped the league with 24 interceptions this season have been highlights of his career. “This has been a great group,” Flores remarked. “They bonded quickly, and while we have a great time, we also put in a lot of hard work.”
