The Minnesota Vikings are hitting the reset button after a frustrating 2025 season, and the changes are coming from the top down. With general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah out, head coach Kevin O’Connell is wasting no time reshaping his staff as he looks to steer this team back into contention in 2026 and beyond.
The biggest headline so far? Former Miami Dolphins offensive coordinator Frank Smith is joining the Vikings as assistant head coach.
Smith, who worked closely with Mike McDaniel in Miami, brings a sharp offensive mind and a strong background in run-game coordination. His addition signals a clear intent from O’Connell: get this offense firing on all cylinders again.
Also stepping into a larger role is Keith Carter, who’s been promoted to offensive line coach after serving as an assistant last season. Carter’s no stranger to the trenches-he’s known for his hands-on approach and ability to develop young linemen. With the Vikings needing more consistency up front, especially with questions at quarterback and a run game that never quite found its rhythm last year, Carter's promotion is a key piece of the puzzle.
On the defensive side, Brian Flores remains in place as defensive coordinator, which gives the unit some much-needed continuity. But even with Flores staying put, there’s been a shake-up in the position coaches.
Gerald Alexander is coming in as both the defensive backs coach and the defensive pass game coordinator. Alexander has a reputation for connecting with players and teaching technique at a high level-an area where the Vikings secondary could use a boost.
Perhaps the most intriguing addition is Ryan Nielsen, the former defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars. He’ll take over as defensive line coach and defensive run game coordinator.
Nielsen’s known for his aggressive style and ability to get the most out of his front seven-something that could pay dividends for a Vikings defense that struggled to consistently stop the run in 2025. His arrival comes as Daronte Jones departs for Washington, where he’ll serve as the Commanders’ new defensive coordinator.
Altogether, these hires reflect a clear vision from O’Connell: build a more physical, more disciplined football team on both sides of the ball. After finishing 9-8 and landing third in the NFC North, the Vikings know that incremental improvement won’t cut it. They need a spark-and these staff moves are the first step toward reigniting a roster that still has talent, but needs direction.
There’s still plenty of offseason left, and the Vikings’ front office search remains ongoing. But one thing is clear: O’Connell is taking control of the rebuild, surrounding himself with experienced voices who can help elevate the team’s identity. Whether it’s Frank Smith’s offensive expertise or Nielsen’s defensive intensity, Minnesota is laying the groundwork for a bounce-back year.