Coach Mike Zimmer, GM Rick Spielman Fired From MN Vikings

MINNEAPOLIS — Minnesota Vikings owners Mark and Zydi Wilf parted ways with head coach Mike Zimmer Monday. Zimmer, 65, has coached the Vikings since 2014.

The Vikings have also parted ways with general manager Rick Spielman. Spielman spent 10 seasons as the team's general manager. He has been with the club since 2006, when he was hired vice president of player personnel.

The firings signal the start of a major regime change in Minnesota.

"This morning we met with Rick Spielman and Mike Zimmer to notify them we will be moving in a different direction at the general manager and head coach positions in 2022," the Wilf brothers said in a joint statement.

"We appreciate Rick and Mike's commitment to the team's on-field success, their passion for making a positive impact in our community and their dedication to players, coaches and staff. While these decisions are not easy, we believe it is time for new leadership to elevate our team so we can consistently contend for championships. We wish both Rick and Mike and their families only the best. Our comprehensive search for a new general manager and head coach will begin immediately and will be led internally. We are determined to have sustained success and bring Vikings fans the Super Bowl championships they expect and deserve."

Paul Allen, a KFAN radio host and the Vikings radio announcer, reported on his show Monday morning that the Wilfs cried during their final meeting with Zimmer and Spielman.

The Vikings finished the season 8-9, missing the playoffs for the second consecutive year. Zimmer is 72-56-1 as the Vikings' head coach. He is third behind Bud Grant and Dennis Green in team wins.

Zimmer coached eight total seasons with the Vikings, which included two NFC North titles and three playoff appearances.

NFC North rival Chicago Bears also fired their head coach, Matt Naggy, Monday morning.