Vikings Coach Takes Leave of Absence

The Minnesota Vikings coach staff saw a reshuffling last weekend just days before an emphatic 22-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers. 

Defensive line coach Chris Rumph asked for and was granted a personal leave of absence, ESPN’s Kevin Siefert reported on Saturday, October 22.

Rumph is the Vikings’ second defensive position coach to go on leave this season. Outside linebackers/pass rush specialist Mike Smith took a leave from the team 

Assistant defensive line coach Patrick Hill is assumed to take the lead on filling Rumph’s role for the time being with the help of assistant head coach Mike Pettine.  

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Inheriting one of the league’s most porous defenses from 2022, Brian Flores was asked to do more with less. 

The Vikings parted ways with five starters including key contributors like pass rusher Za’Darius Smith, defensive tackle Dalvin Tomlinson, 

The goal of the offseason was to get younger on defense, develop that talent in hopes that would elevate the defense despite a clear downgrade in personnel.

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