Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores is among the most highly sought-after names in the NFL right now. He's been firmly on the Dallas Cowboys' radar, though they're far from the only ones interested in his services.
Flores is in demand. Not just to remain in his current position for another club, but he's also interviewing as a head coach candidate. Cowboys owner and general manager Jerry Jones will have to make it worth his while to join Dallas, especially with the Washington Commanders breathing down their necks.
Washington is reportedly "hoping" to meet with Flores to fill the DC vacancy created by their decision to dismiss Joe Whitt Jr.
Commanders' interest in Brian Flores spells trouble for Cowboys
As of this writing, the Commanders project to have the sixth-most cap space for 2026. They also have one of the NFL's premier young talents in quarterback Jayden Daniels. That may be enough to beat whatever the Cowboys do (or don't) have to offer.
The pitch to Flores could be that he's the missing piece to Washington's quick turnaround following a disappointing 5-12 2025 campaign. His presence can help them return to the NFC Championship Game as they did in 2024.
Can the Cowboys say the same and be taken at face value if they add Flores? That's up for debate. Nevertheless, Washington's setup surely complicates matters for Jones and Co.
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When there's smoke, a fire isn't far behind. The Cowboys have been linked to Flores since before they fired their DC, Matt Eberflus. That shouldn't be overlooked, but missing out on a prime replacement to a division rival would be a double whammy of unfortunate events.
Whether it be the Cowboys, Commanders or another squad, whoever lands Flores will be lucky to do so. He's one of the brightest minds in football and has built a strong résumé, specifically in Minnesota.
Despite missing the playoffs this season, the Vikings boasted one of the league's best stop units, and the numbers bear that out. Look at where they ranked in the following key metrics:
- Third-fewest yards per play (4.7)
- Second-fewest passing touchdowns allowed (15)
- Fourth in Pro Football Reference's expected points contributed
- One of nine teams to allow 4.0 yards per carry or fewer
- Second-lowest red zone touchdown rate against (42.9 percent)
- Fourth-fewest points per drive allowed (1.68)
- Second-highest sack rate (9.9 percent)
- Second-most tackles for loss (107)
If this doesn't spring Jerry Jones into action, what will?