Following the disappointing end to the Minnesota Vikings season, the team has decided the future of head coach Kevin O'Connell. The coach was appearing in rumors of being potentially traded to a new team, but that will not be the case.
According to Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, "The #Vikings and coach Kevin O'Connell have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension, sources tell me and RapSheet. This was Minnesota's priority and conversations started immediately after the season. Still only 39, O'Connell isn't going anywhere."
O'Connell will be sticking around in Minnesota to attempt to lead the team to another successful season in 2025.
O'Connell has been instrumental in turning around the Vikings organization around when since he took over in 2022. Following a two-season stint with the Los Angeles Rams as the team's offensive coordinator, he became the main man in Minnesota.
Behind O'Connell, the Vikings went 13-4 in 2022 but would lose in the Wild Card Round of the Playoffs.
O'Connell and the Vikings would experience a sophomore slump, going 7-10 in 2023. However, they answered back with a 14-3 record in 2024. Sadly, the Vikings would once again lose in the Wild Card Round.
Behind the shocking resurgence of Sam Darnold, the Vikings became a force in 2024. O'Connell may have appeared as a trade candidate in rumors this offseason, but the organization is not allowing their 39-year-old phenom to walk out the door.
The Vikings will need to retool a bit to compete again in 2025, and the biggest question they have is whether or not they plan to resign Darnold. The team did draft J.J. McCarthy to replace Kirk Cousins, but he tore his ACL during preseason.
It will be interesting to see if McCarthy emerges as the starter this time around, and if Darnold will be welcomed back on a new extension. Regardless of the choice, the starting quarterback will have O'Connell back to lead them.
The Vikings have released an official statement on the O'Connell extension, which states:
"Kevin is exactly who we believed him to be when we named him as our head coach – an innovative play caller, an excellent communicator and a strong leader who motivates and connects with his players," Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf said. "He has helped establish a culture that positions us for sustained success, and he will continue to set the standard we need as we pursue a championship for Vikings fans."
O'Connell also commented on the extension and his excitement for his future with the Vikings.
"Holding this prestigious position is something I never take for granted, and I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Wilf family for their unwavering belief in what we are building together. I also want to thank Leah and our incredible children; their love and support allow me to perform this job at a high level," O'Connell said. "And none of this would be possible without the dedication of our coaches, players and support staff. I can't wait to get back to work with all of them as we continue to build upon the high standard we've set and the positive environment we've created.
"To Vikings fans, you are the best in the NFL," O'Connell added. "There is no greater joy than leading our team in front of you each Sunday and experiencing the home-field advantage you create. I'm thrilled for the years ahead."
