The P/PTSD Perspective: Ex-QB a Coach, Signing a Young LB, and Concerning Brian Flores Turn

K. Joudry |

Jan 17, 2026

August 17, 2008; Tampa, FL, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Kevin O'Connell (5) during the second half against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

PurplePTSD works in partnership with Vikings Territory, similarly doing their utmost to offer top-notch coverage of the Minnesota Vikings. As a result, we’re promoting five of their top articles of the past month in “The P/PTSD Perspective.” Take a peek at some of their best stuff.

The P/PTSD Perspective: January 17th, 2025

1) Commanders Promote Ex-Vikings QB to Offensive Coordinator: Being a backup quarterback in the NFL means committing to the grind of studying. Oftentimes, the job comes down to decoding a defense in real time before then relaying insights to the starter on the sideline. Maybe predictably, depth passers often go on to become really good coaches (like that Kevin O’Connell guy).

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell in Dallas in Week 15 of 2025 — Dec 14, 2025; Arlington, Texas, USA; Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell before a game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images.

2) Vikings Sign a Young Linebacker: In all likelihood, the new linebacker is someone who will compete in the offseason before needing to look elsewhere for work. But, to be sure, the Vikings need help at linebacker, so a spot at the end of the roster is there for the taking, which is to say nothing of the practice squad.

3) Brian Flores Situation Takes an Uncomfortable Turn: Seeing the brilliant DC leave for another gig as a DC would really sting for folks who cheer for the Vikings. The Wilfs, presumably, will match (or surpass) any offer made by a rival team. Would he really shuffle over to a new spot if it’s to be a coordinator?

Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores watches practice during Minnesota minicamp at the team training facility. — Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores observes drills during organized team activities at the Minnesota Vikings Training Facility as the club held minicamp on Jun 10, 2025, in Minneapolis. Flores has overseen a dramatic defensive turnaround in Minnesota, earning league-wide attention while working closely with a veteran-heavy roster during a pivotal offseason for the franchise. Mandatory Credit: Matt Krohn–Imagn Images.

4) Lewis Cine is Back in the News: Opting for Lewis Cine still stands out as one of the top whiffs for the current leadership group. The first and most obvious pivot would have been to just stay in the original draft slot for safety Kyle Hamilton. After dropping down, there could have been the decision to snag Jalen Pitre, a key part of that impressive Texans defense.

5) 5 Vikings Deals that Stand Out as Cap Decisions: Chances are there are going to be some surprises before it’s all said and done. Sometimes, those internal to the NFL think differently about a situation than those who exist outside of the NFL. But, to be sure, there are some players who rise above the pack as clear cut candidates.

Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell talks with general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah on the sideline at Allegiant Stadium against the Raiders. — Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell and general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah share a sideline moment during the Dec. 10, 2023 matchup in Paradise, Nevada, against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium. The exchange highlighted the close working relationship between Minnesota’s top football decision-makers as they navigated game-day strategy and long-term organizational planning. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports.

Enjoy the extra reading, Vikings fans.

Also Read on Vikings Territory:Vikings GM Admits One Big Offseason Mistake

By K. Joudry

I'm the Senior Editor for Vikings Territory & PurplePTSD . Twitter & Bluesky: @VikingsGazette. Email: k.joudry[at]vikingsterritory[dot]com. Canadian. Jude 1:24-25.