MN Vikings Fire Defensive Coordinator Ed Donatell After 1 Season

EAGAN, MN — The Minnesota Vikings fired defensive coordinator Ed Donatell after one season. Head coach Kevin O'Connell announced the decision Thursday, less than a week after the team's disappointing first-round playoff exit.

The Vikings' defense gave up the third-most points in the NFL in 2022, according to Pro Football Reference.

"Today I informed Ed Donatell we will be going in a different direction at defensive coordinator in 2023. While this was a difficult decision because of the tremendous respect I have for Ed as a person and a coach, I believe it is the right move for the future of our football team," O'Connell said in a statement.

"I want to thank Ed for his commitment to the Vikings this past season, for the positive impact he had on our players and coaches and for his role in helping me as a first-year head coach lay this foundation. We all wish Ed and his wife, Shari, only the best in the future.

After finishing the regular season 13-4 and clinching the NFC North division title, the Vikings lost at home Sunday to the New York Giants, 24 to 31.

"We will immediately begin our search to fill this critical role as we continue to build a championship standard for the Minnesota Vikings," O'Connell concluded.