Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer isn't going anywhere.
The team announced a contract extension for the third-year head coach Thursday, though the length of the extension was not immediately available. According to the club, Zimmer's 18 wins over his first two years were the most for any Vikings head coach to start his career other than the great Dennis Green (20).
"Mike has instilled a very positive atmosphere over the past three years and our players have thrived under his tutelage and leadership," owner Zygi Wilf said in a statement. "His focus on helping our players develop and maximize potential, individually and collectively, is critical for our current and future success. We believe the continuity established with Mike leading our football team is a very positive step for our organization."
Vikings general manager Rick Spielman said extension talks with Zimmer started immediately after the playoffs. "There is no doubt Zimmer is going to be our coach for a long time," Spielman said.
After a 7-9 record during his first season, Zimmer quickly molded the team to his vision -- a brutal run-first offense and a stubborn defense full of cerebral playmakers. In just two seasons, Teddy Bridgewater rose to the precipice of stardom while defensive stalwart Harrison Smith established himself as a premier safety. The team won the NFC North last year for the first time since 2009, and posted one of the best scoring defenses in football.
These are the halcyon days for Minnesota, a team riding high off last year's success and the creation of a new landmark stadium downtown. Zimmer will be a big piece of the momentum going forward.
