Vikings Get Deals Done With Turner & Edwards
When it comes to the coaching jobs of the Minnesota Vikings things continue to move at a gradual place, but that hasn’t prevented the expected from becoming reality.
The Vikings had to wait for some language regarding Norv Turner’s contract in Cleveland to be hashed out before they could officially hire him, but reports indicate that deals are now official making Turner the team’s offensive coordinator and George Edwards the defensive coordinator.
Turner is an NFL institution in his own right that has had a storied NFL career. His offensive coordinator stints are held in much higher regard than his head coaching attempts, but I am as excited about this hire as any other possibilities this offseason. Turner’s resume suggests that the Vikings will turn into a well-prepared offense capable of developing quarterback talent, able to make Cordarrelle Patterson and Kyle Rudolph even more dangerous threats, while continuing to highlight Adrian Peterson’s power style to keep defenses on their toes.
Edwards is likely to have less power than Turner. Head coach Mike Zimmer made it clear he plans to be heavily involved in refurbishing this defense. Both have experience in a variety of schemes and it makes sense that Minnesota would target a guy specializing in linebacker play given their recent lack of production out of that position.
Our new coaching staff has rejuvenated optimism within the ranks of Vikings fans, but key roster moves are needed next, and that is what excites me most about these hires. Now that we know a little bit about the direction of this team we can start the speculation machine… time for some free agency and draft features!