The Minnesota Vikings have made a strategic addition to their coaching staff by hiring Jordan Traylor as the assistant offensive coordinator and co-quarterbacks coach. This move comes in the wake of Grant Udinski’s departure to the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he has taken on the role of offensive coordinator under head coach Liam Coen.
Jordan Traylor’s Coaching Journey
Jordan Traylor, 31, brings a wealth of experience to the Vikings, having spent five seasons with the New Orleans Saints in various capacities. His tenure with the Saints began in 2019 as a scouting assistant, a role he held for two years before transitioning to the coaching staff. Initially serving as a defensive assistant, Traylor made a significant shift to the offensive side in 2023, working closely with the tight ends.
Before his time in the NFL, Traylor honed his coaching skills at the collegiate level. In 2018, he was an offensive analyst focusing on quarterbacks at the University of Arkansas. Prior to that, from 2016 to 2017, he served as an offensive graduate assistant at the University of Texas, working with quarterbacks and receivers.
Traylor’s playing career saw him as a quarterback and wide receiver in high school, followed by collegiate stints at Mississippi College and Texas A&M. At Texas A&M, he earned recognition as a Southeastern Conference All-Academic selection. Notably, he is the son of Jeff Traylor, the head coach at the University of Texas-San Antonio (UTSA).
Impact on the Vikings’ Coaching Dynamics
The departure of Grant Udinski left a notable vacancy in the Vikings’ coaching hierarchy. Udinski, who had been with the Vikings, accepted the offensive coordinator position with the Jacksonville Jaguars under head coach Liam Coen.
In response, Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell sought a replacement who could seamlessly integrate into the team’s offensive philosophy. Traylor’s diverse coaching background, especially his recent focus on quarterbacks and tight ends, makes him a valuable asset in this regard. His experience aligns well with the Vikings’ offensive strategies, particularly in enhancing quarterback performance and tight end utilization.
Strategic Timing and Future Implications
The timing of Traylor’s hiring is particularly strategic, as the Vikings are on the cusp of critical decisions regarding their quarterback roster. Sam Darnold, who delivered an impressive performance in the previous season with over 4,000 passing yards and 35 touchdowns, is entering free agency. The Vikings are keen on retaining Darnold, and bringing in Traylor, known for his quarterback development skills, could be a decisive factor in contract negotiations.
Moreover, Traylor’s recent role as the quarterbacks coach for the National Team at the 2025 Senior Bowl underscores his commitment to developing emerging talent. This experience not only highlights his coaching versatility but also his ability to mentor and elevate quarterback performance—a critical asset for the Vikings as they aim to maintain and enhance their offensive prowess.
Conclusion
The Vikings’ decision to hire Jordan Traylor reflects a proactive approach to strengthening their coaching staff amid recent transitions. Traylor’s multifaceted coaching background, coupled with his recent focus on quarterback development, positions him as a key contributor to the team’s offensive strategy. As the Vikings navigate upcoming player contracts and aim for a competitive edge in the forthcoming season, Traylor’s expertise will be instrumental in shaping a dynamic and effective offense.
