Washington Commanders fans are dreaming big after a report surfaced about head coach Dan Quinn wanting to speak with Brian Flores regarding their vacant defensive coordinator position. However, wanting to and actually having the chance to are very different things.
Flores is currently trying to get a head coaching job. He's already spoken with the Baltimore Ravens, and more could be on the way. And if he doesn't do enough for a top job elsewhere, there will be a queue of suitors looking to secure his services.
His contract with the Minnesota Vikings is up. The NFC North club couldn't get something worked out with him before or during the 2025 season. However, head coach Kevin O'Connell left no doubt about how much he wants Flores to return if a promotion doesn't arise.
Vikings remain confident in keeping Brian Flores amid Commanders' interest
O'Connell confirmed that the Vikings have been aggressive in trying to retain Flores. They want to be respectful of his current effort to get a head-coaching gig for the second time, but Minnesota is confident he will be back if all else fails.
"They want to be able to totally clarify that we’re very much being aggressive to try to get something done with him. But at the same time, [we] want to be respectful and make sure he can go through whatever process, whether it is for a total clarity and commitment to the head coaching process. But I don’t have, based upon my conversations, I think I shared this the last time we were able to speak, I have a lot of confidence we’re going to be able to get something done with him as our defensive coordinator."Kevin O'Connell via AtoZ Sports
Nothing is confirmed as yet, but it only emphasizes the remote chance Washington has of luring Flores to the organization in the near future.
This is going to take a blank check from Josh Harris, carte blanche to run the defensive scheme as he sees fit, and a significant say in the personnel Washington looks to acquire this offseason. And in all honesty, even that might not be enough.
All the Commanders can do is try. They've already conducted interviews, and they are scheduled to speak with Jonathan Gannon later this week. Getting the chance to speak with Flores seems ambitious, but with the stakes higher than ever for Quinn, he must go all out to find the right hire.
The Vikings will do everything in their power to keep Flores if he sets aside his dreams of becoming a head coach. Washington has nothing but hope, so this likely revolves around whether the exceptional defensive mind wants a fresh challenge elsewhere.
Watch this space, but it's not looking especially promising.