Norv Turner resigned as the offensive coordinator for the Vikings on Wednesday morning in a move that adds another big change of plans to a long list in Minnesota this season.
The team has had to replace their projected quarterback, running back, left tackle and right tackle because of injuries and they’ve been working on integrating quarterback Sam Bradford into the mix on the fly after trading for him just before the start of the season. The results of their offensive work haven’t been very good -- 31st in yards, 20 total points in two straight losses -- but Turner’s departure still came as a surprise.
Turner issued a statement about his resignation on Wednesday that didn’t provide a great deal of insight into why Turner chose this moment to walk away.
“I have tremendous respect for Mike Zimmer, our coaching staff, and our players and at this time I think it is in the best interest of the team to step down,” Turner said. “I thank the Wilf family for my time here in Minnesota and want to see our players and coaches achieve success.”
Turner will be replaced by Pat Shurmur on an interim basis. Zimmer will meet the media later on Wednesday in a session that’s sure to feature a lot of discussion about Turner’s decision and the direction of the Vikings offense under its new management.