Dan Campbell has been let go by the Dolphins and the Vikings reportedly have inquired about his availability.
Aaron Wilson of National Football Post says that according to sources, the Dolphins have granted former interim head coach Dan Campbell his release, making him free to pursue other opportunities.
NFL teams have begun calling Campbell according to Wilson. He says the Vikings are among the teams that have inquired as to Campbell’s availability.
Campbell served as tight ends coach in Miami before being elevated to interim head coach after Joe Philbin was fired. Campbell, universally described as “gritty,” led the Dolphins to a 5-7 record.
Though it does appear true that the Vikings have put in a call to Campbell, we can only speculate as to the position they might have in mind for him.
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It could be the Vikings are looking at Campbell as a successor to offensive line coach Jeff Davidson. The Vikings’ offensive line underperformed this year and they might be thinking about making a change.
Of course after his time as a head coach, Campbell presumably is seeking a head coaching or top coordinator job. Campbell reportedly interviewed for the Dolphins permanent head coaching position before the team hired Adam Gase.
Before becoming a tight ends coach, Campbell spent ten years as a tight end with the Giants, Cowboys and Lions. Mike Zimmer was on the Cowboys staff at the same time Campbell was a player there.
Wilson’s report says the Chargers and Cowboys have also asked about Campbell.
Did I mention that Campbell is described as gritty? Perhaps Jeff Davidson isn’t gritty enough for Mike Zimmer. The offensive line could perhaps use an infusion of grit.
Update: Jeff Davidson, it was revealed Tuesday morning, is not coming back next season as offensive line coach.
Mike Zimmer said offensive line coach Jeff Davidson is not coming back. Contract won't be renewed.
— Matt Vensel (@mattvensel) January 12, 2016
Connect the dots, la la la la.