3 candidates to be the next Vikings defensive coordinator

(Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Andre Patterson
(Photo by Jorge Lemus/NurPhoto via Getty Images) Andre Patterson /
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(Photo By Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via Getty Images) Andre Patterson
(Photo By Jerry Holt/Star Tribune via Getty Images) Andre Patterson /

Andre Patterson

Andre Patterson has been with the Vikings since Mike Zimmer became the head coach in 2014. He has led one of the best units on the defense and is the coach on the current staff who deserves the promotion to defensive coordinator the most.

Patterson has been Minnesota’s defensive line coach for the last six seasons. The defensive line has arguably been the best part of the Vikings’ defense during this stretch.

They are an aggressive and talented group that consistently pressures opposing quarterbacks. They can also stuff the run and they are a huge reason why Minnesota is always in contention for the NFC North crown. Patterson’s coaching is a huge part of their success.

Patterson is a great coach because he is a great teacher. He has been blessed to work with some very talented players, but he also knows how to get the most out of his players and he helps them utilize their strengths.

He has to be given a lot of credit for the fast development of Danielle Hunter. He also has made solid players out of Stephen Weatherly and his latest project, Ifeadi Odenigbo, just had a breakout season and he could potentially be the Vikings future at right defensive end. Patterson is a great football coach and he would be an excellent defensive coordinator for Minnesota.