The Minnesota Vikings became the second team in the NFC North to clean house, as they fired head coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman. Both had led this team for quite a while, but the lack of sustained success and playoff exposure ultimately led to both being let go.

For Zimmer, the defensive-minded coach will likely find a spot as a coordinator or a positional coach for the time being, as his acumen is up there with the very best on that side of the ball. While no reports have surfaced yet about his future plans, there is potential that we have not seen the last of Zimmer as a head coach in the NFL – but it just won’t happen in Minnesota.

Moving forward, the Vikings must get their next head coach right, as they have been playing second fiddle to the Green Bay Packers in their own division for far too long. With the type of playmakers they have on offense, it is likely that they will decide to chase an upstart offensive mind to help organize the likes of Dalvin Cook, Justin Jefferson, and others.

Minnesota Vikings head-coaching candidates to replace Mike Zimmer

3. Kellen Moore

The first of two offensive coaches on this list, Kellen Moore has enjoyed being the offensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, helping lead a well-balanced offensive attack that has had its fair share of success.

In a way, the Cowboys’ offense is set up somewhat similar to what the Vikings have too – a bonafide stud RB with a proven but young WR hoping to take over the league. The only issue is that going from the strong offensive line and QB in Dallas to a worse situation in Minnesota would be tough for Moore to handle in the beginning.

If the Cowboys enjoy some postseason success, expect Moore to fly up the candidate list, and the Vikings would be smart to tab him as their Zimmer successor.

2. Brian Flores

The lone defensive mind on this list is Brian Flores, the recently-fired and now-former head coach of the Miami Dolphins that was the most surprising coaching move made so far. His proven track record helping rectify a struggling Dolphins’ team would immediately be a big boost for the Vikings, and his respectful-but-tough coaching style certainly would benefit a talented roster like Minnesota’s.

Bringing Flores up north would help finally create some competition in the North, making things harder for Aaron Rodgers and the runaway Packers’ offense. If Flores wants to join a team that is on the cusp of being a playoff entrant, then the Vikings would be a great option for him.

1. Brian Daboll

The second Brian on this list is also the best option for the Vikings to move forward with – Brain Daboll, who currently fills the role of the offensive coordinator for the Buffalo Bills.

Helping facilitate a strong offensive attack predicated on Josh Allen’s arm and legs, Daboll would do great things with Cook and Jefferson, helping scheme them into many successful opportunities each game, while still being able to utilize what made them successful this season.

While not having the type of mobile QB he would be used to, Daboll could help get Cousins into more manageable situations, and the fact that Daboll would finally be on a team with a competent rushing attack could very well be the final piece needed for him to unlock all of his offensive playcalling.