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Vikings Assistant Gaining NFC East Interest
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- Vikings Assistant Gaining NFC East Interest
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Vikings fell short this season thanks to questionable quarterback play and a plethora of injuries. Their 9-8 record wasn't good enough to make the postseason and Kevin O'Connell has plenty of changes to make going into next season.
Somewhat surprisingly, the organization is opting for the status quo in multiple key spots. Only one significant coaching change has been a byproduct of internal decision making. More may be coming when considering external factors , and then O'Connell will need to pivot in rounding out his staff.
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The future of Brian Flores remains up in the air . While Minnesota waits, they could lose passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach Daronte Jones too.
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Daronte Jones may be lured away from MN Vikings
Right now Daronte Jones is under contract as the Minnesota Vikings passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach. A defensive coordinator role would be a promotion, and it's one multiple organizations are considering.
Giants have requested to interview Vikings passing game coordinator and DB coach Daronte Jones for their defensive coordinator position. Jones has interviewed in-person with the Cowboys and Jets for their DC positions.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 19, 2026
The New York Giants, who are now led by new head coach John Harbaugh, are considering Jones for their opening. That interview will be his third after already talking with the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets.
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Of course, especially with Flores not under contract, the MN Vikings could just promote Jones to be their defensive coordinator. They'll need a replacement if the most recent man flies the coop.
Minnesota could also find themselves in a position where they are left out in the cold. Both Flores and Jones are interviewing for other roles. If both are gone, they'll need to pivot and be left wondering whether they should have just promoted an up-and-coming talent once again.
This is a pivotal scenario to watch for the Vikings as Flores has elevated the defense after Ed Donatell's unit flopped. Kevin O'Connell's offense has not clicked as expected of late, and a defensive slide would be catastrophic.
If Jones isn't hired for a defensive coordinator role this cycle, it may be the last time the Minnesota Vikings are afforded an opportunity to keep him around.
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