Mike Zimmer wants the Vikings to be ‘a little more reckless defensively’
By Adam Carlson
The Minnesota Vikings’ defense might be a little more willing to roll the dice during the 2017 season thanks to a change in philosophy by head coach Mike Zimmer.
When it comes to the Minnesota Vikings, the main focus is doing your job. Head coach Mike Zimmer preaches accountability and technique as well as for players to best use their physical abilities.
However, a recent interview with Zimmer on the Twin Cities Pioneer Press website, the team might look a little differently on the defensive side of the ball, as the head coach is willing to give his players a bit more free reign.
Zimmer even used some strong words to describe his new defensive approach, which should interest many fans.
"“I’m going to try to be a little more reckless defensively this year, a little more aggressive.”"
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For Zimmer, this is an interesting development in his strategy as a coach. His disciplined approach to defense is something he previously prided himself on, but he feels a little more freedom might do the team some good.
"“Well, we’re pretty disciplined the way we play up front. Maybe if I let those guys go a little bit more, they’ll make some more negative plays.”"
However, there are some limitations to this freedom. Allowing players the ability to make calls on the fly will put more pressure on the next man out in the defense, as explained by Zimmer using Eric Kendricks as an example.
"“The problem is if you’re more aggressive up front, your linebackers are going to get blocked a lot more. With Eric (Kendricks) being a smaller linebacker, you’ve got to pick your punches. Most teams know if we’re lined up there, we’re going to play there. I think it can add a little bit if we add a little bit of movement. Change-ups, I guess.”"