Vikings DC Flores says he was hurt by Tagovailoa’s sharp criticism but wishes Dolphins QB well

EAGAN, Minn. — Two Minnesota Vikings starters flanked defensive coordinator Brian Flores as he prepared to address blunt criticism of his character and coaching style delivered publicly by Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, a sign of solidarity Flores relished from his current team while acknowledging he was hurt by the biting appraisal from his most prominent former player. After Tagovailoa’s commentary about their time together with the Dolphins was aired the day before, Flores took a high-road approach to his regularly scheduled news conference Tuesday at Vikings headquarters. I got into coaching because I want to make that same type of positive impact.” Tagovailoa said on “ The Dan LeBatard Show ” that he has thrived with Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel because of the difference in how he’s been treated and how the experience with Flores eroded his self-esteem. The Dolphins and Vikings, in opposite conferences, aren’t scheduled to play each other again until 2026 in Minnesota, but Flores said he has considered contacting Tagovailoa and trying to clear the air between them. Said Phillips as he walked away: “You’re a real one, Flo!” Flores was later asked if he viewed the time with the Dolphins through the same lens as Tagovailoa.