The Minnesota Vikings have given head coach Kevin O’Connell a multi-year extension to keep him in the twin cities for the foreseeable future.
Vikings owners Zygi and Mark Wilf opted not to extend O’Connell’s deal following the 2023 NFL campaign, or during the season, creating a scenario where the 39 year old could very well win the NFL coach of the year award, but could also be looking for work elsewhere. According to reports, multiple teams around the league were positioning themselves to make a trade offer for the head coach, should he and the Vikings not be able to come to terms on a new deal.
Across 3 seasons in Minnesota, O’Connell sports a 34-17 record (.667 win %), and has taken his team to the playoffs in two of the last three seasons. In all likelihood, he could have gone 3 for 3 in that regard had QB Kirk Cousins not torn his achilles in week 8 of the 2023 NFL campaign, essentially derailing the Vikings playoff push.
“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.”
Vikings Owner/Chairman Zygi Wilf added “There is no question this team is on the right trajectory under Kevin’s continued leadership. His authenticity, passion and positive energy, along with his impressive understanding of the game, has helped lead to the success we’ve experienced over the past three years and will be foundational blocks on which to build moving forward.”
Minnesota’s balanced approach on both sides of the football led to a 14-3 record, losing out on the NFC’s number 1 seed only after a loss to Detroit in the final week of the regular season. O’Connell’s team ranked first in the NFL in takeaways, 2nd in rushing yards allowed per game, 6th in passing yard per game, and 5th in passing touchdowns.
While no press conference was held, and terms of the deal weren’t made publicly available, the Vikings head coach did release a statement saying that O’Connell said “it is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota 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.”
Minnesota will now turn their attention to a contract extension with GM Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, and then the NFL Draft where the team holds the 24th overall pick in the annual spring event.
Photo: Runner 1928. This file is made available under the Creative Commons CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication.