The Minnesota Vikings have made significant additions to their defensive coaching staff, hiring Gerald Alexander and Ryan Nielsen to key roles, according to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network.
Gerald Alexander is set to take over as the team's defensive pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach. Alexander brings a wealth of experience to the secondary, a unit looking to build on its performance from the previous season. He joins a staff that is looking to maintain continuity while adding fresh perspectives to the defensive backfield.
Joining him is Ryan Nielsen, the former defensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars. Nielsen will serve as the Vikings' defensive line coach and defensive run game coordinator. His addition provides the team with a veteran defensive mind to oversee the trenches and the run defense, bringing experience from his recent stint leading a full defensive unit in Jacksonville.
These coaching changes follow the departure of Daronte Jones, who recently vacated his position with the Vikings to accept the defensive coordinator role with the Washington Commanders. The organization moved quickly to fill the gaps in the staff under head coach Kevin O'Connell and defensive coordinator Brian Flores as they prepare for the upcoming season.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting