It runs in the family. With George Zimmer out as defensive coordinator, the Minnesota Vikings could hire from within to find their next DC. Not just within the football organization, but the family of head coach Mike Zimmer.
According to Sirius XM NFL host Alex Marvez, Adam Zimmer is a candidate to become the defensive coordinator of the Vikings. The younger Zimmer has been the Vikings' linebackers coach for the past six seasons. The results, so far, are good, as Minnesota's current linebacking duo consists of a four-time Pro Bowler (Anthony Barr) and an All-Pro (Eric Kendricks). Both were developed from within.
Multiple sources tell @SiriusXMNFL that Adam Zimmer is a candidate to become next @Vikings defensive coordinator working under his dad Mike. Adam has served as MIN LBs coach the past 6 seasons & helped develop two good ones in Eric Kendricks & Anthony Barr
— Alex Marvez (@alexmarvez) January 13, 2020
Zimmer's coaching experience isn't just on his father's roster. Before coming to Minnesota, he spent the 2013 season with the Cincinnati Bengals as an assistant backs coach. He was with the Kansas City Chiefs between 2010-12 and the New Orleans Saints from 2006-09 as an assistant linebacker coach before then.
For the Vikings, the defensive coordinator job does not mean play-caller. The elder Zimmer is regarded as the constructor of the consistently solid to great defense. The second-level blitzes, hybrid looks and constant disguises can be credited to Zimmer, one of the NFL's most experienced and respected defensive minds.
Adam can, of course, use the job of defensive coordinator as a stepping stone. With his father still the architect of the defense, he may not have as much responsibility in the position as some, if hired.
However, there is also the risk that if the younger Zimmer fails, both will go to the chopping block.
Follow Us
Subscribe