Brian Flores is staying put in Minnesota - for now. The Vikings have locked in their defensive coordinator with a new deal that ensures Flores will return to the team unless he lands a head coaching job elsewhere. And that’s no small caveat, because Flores is very much in the mix for one of the NFL’s open top jobs, including a potential reunion with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Flores interviewed with the Steelers on Tuesday, the first of three in-person interviews the team has scheduled this week. Also on deck: former Cowboys and Packers head coach Mike McCarthy and current Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver. Pittsburgh is clearly casting a wide net, but Flores brings a unique blend of familiarity, pedigree, and recent success that makes him a serious contender.
Let’s not forget - Flores spent the 2022 season in Pittsburgh as a senior defensive assistant after his controversial exit from Miami. That stint came at a pivotal time for both Flores and the Steelers.
After filing a lawsuit against the NFL alleging racial discrimination and retaliation following his dismissal from the Dolphins, Flores was brought into the Steelers’ fold by Mike Tomlin, who offered him a role when others hesitated. It was a move that spoke volumes about Tomlin’s respect for Flores and his belief in what the former head coach could bring to the table.
Since then, Flores has reestablished himself as one of the NFL’s most respected defensive minds. His work in Minnesota has been nothing short of transformative.
The Vikings’ defense has shown a renewed edge under his leadership - aggressive, disciplined, and creative. Flores has reminded the league that when it comes to building a defense, he’s not just capable - he’s elite.
Now, with head coaching vacancies opening up, Flores is once again a name that’s gaining serious traction. His time in Miami was complicated, no doubt. There were reported tensions with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and Flores famously refused to go along with alleged tanking directives from ownership - a stance that may have cost him his job but earned him plenty of respect around the league.
Flores’ journey began in New England, where he spent over a decade under Bill Belichick. From scout to linebackers coach, he climbed the ranks the hard way, learning the nuances of game planning, player development, and situational football at the highest level. That foundation helped him land the Dolphins job in 2019, and while his tenure there ended abruptly, it also proved he could lead a team and command a locker room.
Now, the question is whether the Steelers - a franchise known for stability and continuity - see Flores as the right fit to lead their next chapter. With his blend of experience, defensive acumen, and Pittsburgh ties, he checks a lot of boxes. And while his extension with the Vikings signals mutual interest in continuing their partnership, it’s clear Flores has his eyes set on something bigger.
The next few days will be telling. Pittsburgh is doing its due diligence, but if they’re looking for a coach who’s battle-tested, respected by players, and capable of building a defense that punches above its weight - Flores might just be their guy.