The openings were created last year when outside linebackers coach Mike Smith took a leave of absence prior to the regular season and defensive line coach Chris Rumph took a leave of absence at midseason. Both departures were for personal reasons, the Vikings said.
The Vikings will start Joshua Dobbs at quarterback against the Raiders on Sunday. After Dobbs threw four interceptions in the team's 12-10 loss to the Bears on Nov. 27, the Vikings' offensive coaches spent the bye week evaluating Dobbs, Nick Mullens and Jaren Hall. Rather than returning to Hall, the rookie who started against Atlanta on Nov. 5, or giving Mullens his first playing time since .