Zimmer is a defensive mastermind
Second to 2014, this will probably be one of Mike Zimmer’s toughest years as the Vikings head coach in terms of running the team’s defense.
Back in 2014, Zimmer had to completely rebuild Minnesota’s defense (eight new starters) and it resulted in the team going from allowing the most points per game in the NFL in 2013 to allowing the 11th-fewest points in the league during their first season with their new head coach.
This year, the Vikings will have at least four new starters after the departures of Everson Griffen, Linval Joseph, Xavier Rhodes, and Trae Waynes this offseason. Compared to 2014, this season should feel like a walk in the park.
There will likely be some hiccups for Minnesota’s defense this year, especially in the secondary. The Vikings have a very young group of cornerbacks this season, but luckily they will have the talented safety duo of Anthony Harris and Harrison Smith to keep them in line.
Minnesota’s corners also have the luxury of Zimmer being the guy to point them in the right direction. During his last 12 years as a head coach or a defensive coordinator, none of his pass defenses have finished worst than 15th in the NFL. The Vikings pass defense has also ranked seventh or higher in four of their six seasons with Zimmer in charge.
So with as much change as Minnesota has experienced on the defensive side of the ball this year, the level of worries should still be low as long as Zimmer is still the guy leading the way.