Vic Fangio’s Value Rising as Coordinator Market Shifts with Brian Flores Deal
In a league where defensive coordinators are increasingly being paid like head coaches, Vic Fangio’s stock is once again trending upward-and for good reason.
Since taking over as the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive coordinator in 2024, Fangio has done more than just steady the ship-he’s been the anchor. That same year, his defense helped shut down Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl, a performance that not only secured a title but also stamped Fangio’s system as championship-caliber. Even when the Eagles took a step back and exited early in the wild-card round, it was Fangio’s unit that kept them in the fight, finishing fifth in scoring defense and 13th in total yards allowed.
That kind of impact doesn’t come cheap. Fangio’s nearly four decades of NFL experience already command a premium, with reports last year placing his salary in the $4 to $5 million range-right near the top of the coordinator pay scale. But the market just shifted again, and it could have ripple effects in Philly.
Brian Flores, who had a busy offseason exploring both defensive coordinator and head coaching opportunities, ultimately re-signed with the Minnesota Vikings. According to reports, his new deal places him among the highest-paid coordinators in the league.
And while the numbers haven’t been made public yet, the implication is clear: Flores is getting paid like a top-tier defensive mind. That could open the door for Fangio to revisit his own deal heading into 2026.
Let’s look at the numbers. Since Fangio arrived in Philadelphia, the Eagles have allowed just 628 points-second-best in the NFL during that span.
The Vikings, under Flores, have given up 665 points, which ranks sixth. The Eagles also rank second in yards per play allowed (4.85), a testament to Fangio’s schematic discipline and ability to get the most out of his personnel.
Minnesota does have the edge in takeaways, with 54 to Philly’s 47, but the overall body of work leans Fangio’s way.
And then there’s the ring. Flores has done a solid job in Minnesota, but Fangio has the hardware-and that counts for a lot in contract talks.
He’s also helped develop several young defenders into foundational pieces, turning raw talent into reliable production. That kind of player development only strengthens his leverage.
Philadelphia, meanwhile, is in the middle of a critical transition. The offense underperformed last season, leading to the dismissal of offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo after just one year.
With a new OC search underway, the team is trying to stabilize an offense that features Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley, A.J. Brown, and DeVonta Smith-a group that looks lethal on paper but needs the right play-caller to unlock its potential.
On the defensive side, Fangio’s staff has already taken a hit with Christian Parker heading to the rival Dallas Cowboys to become their new defensive coordinator. That departure only underscores Fangio’s importance. If the Eagles want continuity and elite-level performance on defense, keeping Fangio happy-and well-compensated-should be a priority.
No one’s expecting Fangio to walk away out of the blue, but the coordinator landscape is shifting. Chip Kelly was given a reported $6 million to be the Raiders’ offensive coordinator last offseason, only to be fired after 10 months.
Flores is now in the top tier of coordinator salaries despite not matching Fangio’s on-field results. And if those numbers become public, they could serve as a benchmark for Fangio’s next negotiation.
Bottom line: the Eagles have one of the best defensive minds in the game, and the market is starting to reflect just how valuable that is. With a Super Bowl ring, elite defensive metrics, and a proven track record of player development, Vic Fangio has every reason to command top dollar-and the Eagles would be wise to make sure he gets it.