Kevin O'Connell, Vikings agree to multi-year contract extension
Kevin O’Connell agreed to a multi-year contract extension with the Minnesota Vikings, the franchise announced Tuesday. He was preparing to enter the final year of his deal.
O’Connell took the Vikings to a 14-3 record this season in what appeared to be a transition year heading into Week 1. That came even though No. 10 overall draft pick J.J. McCarthy went down with a season-ending injury during training camp, opening the door for Sam Darnold to have a career year after arriving via free agency.
But as things went along, rumors swirled about his long-term future in the Twin Cities with one year remaining on his contract. FOX Sports’ Jay Glazer reported some teams could inquire about O’Connell’s availability for a potential trade considering the lack of substantive talks during the season. Instead, he’s officially staying put for the foreseeable future.
“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,” said Vikings owner and president Mark Wilf in a statement. “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.”
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Minnesota was Kevin O’Connell’s first head coaching opportunity after two years as Sean McVay’s offensive coordinator with the Los Angeles Rams, and he has a 34-17 record in three seasons – including two 13-win campaigns. He previously worked under McVay in Washington from 2017-19 after starting his coaching career with the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers.
“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 in a statement. “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.”