The Minnesota Vikings announced they have added former Browns staff member Derik Keyes to the team’s coaching staff on February 23, 2017.
Since it is the offseason, NFL franchises are scrambling to get the best available players and coaches in order to put their best product possible on the field. For the Minnesota Vikings, that includes the addition of Derik Keyes.
The official Vikings website made the announcement on February 23, 2017 that Keyes would become the team’s assistant strength and conditioning coach. He had that role for two years previously with the Cleveland Browns, Houston Texans, and University of Louisiana-Lafayette.
Keyes will work under strength and conditioning coach Brent Salazar to help ensure that the team can balance tough practices with keeping players healthy throughout the season. Chaz Mahle is also be an assistant under Salazar.
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Injuries are something the Vikings should take seriously. Last year, the team was decimated by ailments, mostly along the offensive line. Hopefully, adding Keyes to the staff will help to ensure these kind of injuries are kept to a minimum.
As far as some background, here is what Vikings.com said about Keyes:
"“Born in Laurel, Mississippi, Keyes attended high school in Lafayette. He began his coaching career as an intern at ULL in 2009 and followed with a year as a graduate assistant at South Alabama.”"
Considering his experience and youth, he should be a solid addition to the staff.
Next: Vikings focusing on improving run game
congratulations to Derik Keyes on becoming an assistant strength and condition coach for the Minnesota Vikings entering the 2017 season. Hopefully, he can do a fantastic job in helping to bring the team to the next level.