Vikings Part Ways with Chris Kuper: Flores Future & Coaching Candidates

In this episode of The Real Forno Show, hosted by Tyler Forness with producer Dave Stefano on Vikings 1st & SKOL, the duo dissects the Minnesota Vikings’ offseason moves amid the NFL coaching carousel. Forness highlights the team’s decision not to retain offensive line coach Chris Kuper, noting, “They’re not renewing his contract… I think both [positives and question marks] can be true at the same time.” They analyze OL performance data from PFF, revealing starters allowed pressures every 31.5 snaps versus backups’ 24.75, and discuss quarterback responsibility for sacks, with Forness stating, “Quarterbacks were responsible for 18 of those 60 sacks.” Stefano adds context on potential replacements, emphasizing scheme fits like wide-zone experts.

The Vikings still face significant defensive staff uncertainty in the 2026 offseason, as Brian Flores’ contract has expired, leaving him a free agent able to pursue head coaching opportunities (with interviews ongoing for teams like the Steelers, Ravens, and others) or even lateral DC moves, though the team remains confident he’ll return unless a head role materializes. Adding to the concern, Vikings defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator Daronte Jones—a rising star who has contributed heavily to Minnesota’s elite defense—is drawing strong interest for DC positions, with interviews already conducted or requested by the Cowboys, Jets, Giants, and Packers. Should Jones depart, the Vikings would need contingencies to preserve their aggressive scheme, potentially turning to experienced options like Raheem Morris (a former head coach with prior ties to Kevin O’Connell from their Rams days) or Jonathan Gannon (ex-Cardinals HC and former Vikings assistant under Mike Zimmer, with proven play-calling success). Securing continuity on this high-performing unit remains a top priority early in the offseason. Brian Flores’ uncertain future, and NFL coaching ripple effects on this must-listen episode.

Key points include:

• Kuper’s Exit and OL Analysis: Injuries led to backups playing 1,658 snaps; starters had low sack allowances (10 of 60 total), but stunts and consistency were issues.
• Replacement Candidates: Names like Dwayne Ledford, Bill Callahan, Frank Smith, Butch Barry, Pat Meyer, and Zak Kromer discussed, with Forness sharing a “hot board” from A to Z Sports that include Kieth Carter, Kevin Carberry, Chris Watt, Ramon Chinyoung, Steve Oliver, Jahri Evans, and Justin Outten.
• Brian Flores and Staff Uncertainty: Flores lacks a contract; potential DC interviews for Daronte Jones could force contingencies like Raheem Morris or Jonathan Gannon.
• Broader Carousel Impacts: Stefanski’s Falcons hire might retain Kirk Cousins; other moves affect QB market and Vikings’ defense.
• Offseason Priorities: Focus on depth over starters; draft class weaknesses at center/tackle noted, with Forness warning, “This offensive line draft class is bad.”

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Whether you’re tracking Vikings news, NFL coaching changes, or offseason strategies, The Real Forno Show delivers expert insights and unfiltered takes for Minnesota Vikings fans. Catch it on Vikings 1st & SKOL’s YouTube or podcast feeds for more episodes, including upcoming SKOL Search breakdowns on wide receivers and linebackers.

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Tyler Forness @TheRealForno of Vikings 1st & SKOL @Vikings1stSKOL and A to Z Sports @AtoZSportsNFL, with Dave Stefano @Luft_Krigare producing this Vikings 1st & SKOL production, the @RealFornoShow. Podcasts partnered with Fans First Sports Network @FansFirstSN.

Question:

What do you think the Vikings’ biggest coaching priority should be this offseason—OL fixes or Flores retention? Share in the comments!