With NFL training camps starting this week, Marcus Dixon — a Hampton University alum and former NFL player — is entering his second year as the defensive line coach for the Minnesota Vikings.
In his first season in the role, Dixon helped guide the Vikings' defense, or what he refers to as the "Dark Side", to impressive rankings: top five in sacks, top four in third-down stops, and an average of just 95 rushing yards allowed per game. The team also led the league in interceptions.
This isn't the first time Dixon has made an immediate impact. In his first year as assistant defensive line coach for the Los Angeles Rams during the 2021–2022 season, the team won its second Super Bowl in franchise history and finished in the top three in sacks.
As training camp begins, Dixon continues to build on a promising coaching career.