The Steelers' search for their next head coach is heating up, and one of the most intriguing names in the mix is Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores, who is scheduled to interview with Pittsburgh on Tuesday, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter.
Flores joins a growing list of candidates being considered for the job, and he’s not just another name on the board-he’s a finalist. The Steelers have already requested interviews with Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley and are expected to speak with Dolphins DC Anthony Weaver as well. Those three are shaping up as the leading contenders in what’s becoming a tightly contested race for one of the most storied coaching jobs in the NFL.
Beyond the finalists, Pittsburgh has cast a wide net. Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase has a meeting scheduled, while the team has also requested interviews with Rams DC Chris Shula, Chargers DC Jesse Minter, Panthers DC Ejiro Evero, and former Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy. It’s a mix of up-and-coming minds and veteran leadership, but Flores stands out for a number of reasons.
Let’s take a closer look at why Flores is firmly in the conversation.
At 44, Flores brings over two decades of NFL experience, starting with the New England Patriots back in 2004. He worked his way up from a scouting assistant to key coaching roles on both special teams and defense. By 2018, he was calling the shots on defense in everything but title, serving as the Patriots’ de facto defensive coordinator during their Super Bowl-winning season.
That résumé earned him the head coaching job in Miami in 2019. While his tenure with the Dolphins ended after three seasons and a 24-25 record, the context matters.
Flores inherited a rebuilding roster and still managed to field competitive teams, including back-to-back winning seasons in 2020 and 2021. Though he didn’t reach the playoffs, his teams showed grit and defensive toughness-traits that resonate with the Steelers’ organizational identity.
After his time in Miami, Flores spent a season with the Steelers as a defensive assistant and linebackers coach, giving him a unique familiarity with the franchise’s culture. That stint helped pave the way to his current role as defensive coordinator in Minnesota, where he's turned heads in just one season.
Under Flores in 2025, the Vikings defense ranked ninth in points allowed and fifth in total defense. They were elite against the pass-third in the league-and while their run defense lagged a bit at 22nd, the overall turnaround was impressive. His aggressive, creative schemes helped revitalize a unit that had struggled in previous years.
What makes Flores an especially compelling candidate for Pittsburgh is how well his coaching DNA aligns with the franchise’s identity. The Steelers have long been defined by physical defense, discipline, and a no-nonsense approach-qualities Flores has emphasized throughout his career. Add in his prior experience with the organization, and it’s easy to see why he’s getting serious consideration.
As the Steelers continue their search, Flores brings a rare blend of head coaching experience, defensive acumen, and organizational familiarity. Whether he ultimately lands the job remains to be seen, but he’s clearly one of the frontrunners-and for good reason.