The Minnesota Vikings have made big strides in their two seasons under head coach Mike Zimmer. In 2014, his first year ever as a head coach, Zimmer put together a top-10 pass defense and the Vikings finished 7-9 while exceeding all expectations. Given the distractions that Adrian Peterson's absence and trade demands posed at the time, as well as the difficulties of starting a rookie quarterback, it would have been understandable had the season quickly gone down the toilet. But Zimmer deftly navigated all oncoming challenges and obstacles.
This season, the 11-5 Vikings were one fluke field goal kick away from making some noise deeper into the playoffs. Sure, they still have some holes to fill. The offensive line could use some work and the wide receiving crops is nothing to brag about. But Minnesota's young nucleus of defensive talent and steady improvement from quarterback Teddy Bridgewater should keep them in contention for a while. Naturally, this led to questions about Zimmer receiving a contract extension this offseason.
"From what Zimmer has told me, he has at least two years left on his deal; it doesn't expire after this season, and it's possible he has three seasons left," ESPN Vikings reporter Ben Goessling wrote. "All he was willing to tell me when I asked him about his initial deal was that it was longer than three years. So there's no real rush to get something done with Zimmer. But if the Vikings have another big season and go to the playoffs, I'd expect a contract extension could be something like the Vikings discuss with Zimmer's agent, Marvin Demoff. They're thrilled with the direction Zimmer has taken the team so far, and another strong season could see him rewarded."
Vikings fans need not worry. This isn't like the sitting duck situation Indianapolis Colts head coach Chuck Pagano found himself in last year before being extended this offseason. Neither is there any animosity between Zimmer and the management/ownership. Everyone is on the same page right now and, more importantly, everyone is happy. Should the Vikings add a pinch more pass-catching talent this offseason to help Bridgewater take the next step in his development, Minnesota could be one of the most dangerous teams in the NFC next season.
