INDIANAPOLIS — While Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell's focus is building an offensive playbook and roster to his liking, he doesn't want to lose track of a defense that could undergo even more changes in scheme and personnel in 2022.
O'Connell has entrusted veteran defensive minds Mike Pettine (assistant head coach) and Ed Donatell (defensive coordinator) to take over former coach Mike Zimmer's side of the ball. The two already started digging into the Vikings roster and sharing visions with scouts for what kind of players and traits fit the 3-4 defensive system they'll install this spring.
But when O'Connell eventually stands in front of the team, he wants to be knowledgeable about everybody's roles and not come across as a one-sided head coach.