Kevin O’Connell’s Coaching Staff Faces Heavy Interest from NFL Teams

Minnesota Vikings Coaching Staff in High Demand Over the course of the offseason, Kevin O’Connell’s coaching staff has become a prime target for multiple teams across the National Football League. The Vikings have received 13 different requests for interviews with their staff, including one for Senior VP of Player Personnel Ryan Grigson, who was considered for the New York Jets’ defensive coordinator position. The latest development sees Minnesota’s passing game coordinator and defensive backs coach, Daronte Jones, drawing interest from the New Orleans Saints for their defensive coordinator role.

Daronte Jones Considered for New Orleans Saints Defensive Coordinator Position On Thursday, the Saints officially requested to interview Daronte Jones, marking his third interview opportunity during this coaching cycle. Jones, now in his second stint with the Vikings, has played a crucial role in the development of the team’s defensive strategy, particularly in pass defense. Working under defensive coordinator Brian Flores, Jones has contributed significantly to improving the Vikings’ secondary.

Jones’ Coaching Journey and Impact on the Vikings Jones’ coaching career in the NFL began with the Miami Dolphins, where he served in 2016 and 2017. He later moved on to the Cincinnati Bengals as the cornerbacks coach from 2018 to 2019. His first tenure with the Vikings came in 2020 under former head coach Mike Zimmer, before he transitioned to the college level as LSU’s defensive coordinator in 2021. However, he returned to Minnesota when Kevin O’Connell took over, initially as the defensive backs coach before earning a promotion to passing game coordinator in 2023.

Jones has been instrumental in developing the Vikings’ defensive backfield, particularly with safeties. Under his guidance, Josh Metellus and Camryn Bynum evolved from late-round draft picks into Pro Bowl-caliber players. Meanwhile, veteran Harrison Smith has maintained his elite level of play despite entering his 13th NFL season. His influence has shaped the unit into one of the team’s defensive strengths.

Potential Consequences of Losing Jones Should the Vikings lose Jones to the Saints, they won’t just be parting with a pivotal member of their defensive coaching staff—they may also be losing the presumed successor to Brian Flores. Given Flores’ rising stock as a head coaching candidate, Jones was seen internally as a potential replacement. His reputation within the organization is strong, making his potential departure a significant loss.

Additionally, Jones’ return to Louisiana would make sense given his ties to LSU. The Saints may see his past experience in the Bayou as an asset, which could sway his decision in favor of the move.

Jones as a Strong Candidate for the Saints With a strong track record of developing defensive talent and a wealth of coaching experience, Jones presents himself as a serious candidate for the Saints’ defensive coordinator position. His ability to elevate young players and contribute to defensive scheming makes him an attractive choice for New Orleans as they look to strengthen their coaching staff. Whether he makes the move or stays in Minnesota, Jones’ influence on the Vikings’ defense has been undeniable, and his potential departure could leave a significant void in the organization.