Teams Coming for Another Vikings Coach on Defense

The Minnesota Vikings are expected to experience a fair amount of coaching turnover this offseason. After a lackluster 9–8 campaign that ended without a playoff berth, Kevin O’Connell could afford to move on from a few assistants. At the same time, other teams are looking to poach some of the strongest members of his staff.

Brian Flores has already been linked to interviews with the Las Vegas Raiders and Baltimore Ravens. Now, interest is also picking up around defensive assistant Daronte Jones.

Daronte Jones Lines Up Multiple Interviews

The Minnesota Vikings have employed Daronte Jones in multiple stints over several seasons. Most recently, he has served as the team’s passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach. Now, he’s reportedly drawing interest from both the New York Jets and the Dallas Cowboys for prominent assistant roles.

Jets have requested to interview Vikings passing game coordinator/DB coach Daronte Jones for their defensive coordinator position.

Jones is also slated to interview with the Cowboys for their DC position as well. pic.twitter.com/S6LGw0m7uU

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 9, 2026

Aaron Glenn endured a difficult first season as head coach of the New York Jets. A 3–14 record, inconsistent quarterback play, and defensive struggles defined the year. Coming from Detroit with a defensive background, Glenn is now looking to reset that side of the ball after parting ways with Steve Wilks.

Meanwhile, the Dallas Cowboys have reportedly shown interest in Brian Flores for their defensive coordinator position. Minnesota would be reluctant to let Flores walk without a contingency plan, and Dallas may recognize that reality. Jones could represent an alternative option, and a move would likely come with a significant promotion.

Jones has only served as a defensive coordinator once in his career, holding the role at LSU during the 2021 season under Ed Orgeron. After major turnover within the Tigers’ program, he returned to Minnesota, where his profile has steadily risen.

MN Vikings Need to Retain Up-and-Coming Assistants

As long as Brian Flores remains with the Minnesota Vikings, no team will pry away their defensive coordinator. However, identifying ways to promote, develop, or financially retain rising assistants remains critical.

Prior to last season, the Vikings allowed Grant Udinski to leave for Jacksonville. He helped rejuvenate the Jaguars’ offense, while Minnesota was left scrambling. Kevin O’Connell’s offense struggled as he balanced play-calling with broader game-management responsibilities. Wes Phillips has yet to distinguish himself, and Josh McCown could soon follow a similar trajectory.

O’Connell and the front office must do a better job identifying fringe coaches with high ceilings and keeping them close. With multiple teams now showing interest, it’s clear that Daronte Jones fits that profile.