Kevin O’Connell isn’t going anywhere.
The Minnesota Vikings have agreed to a multi-year contract extension with O’Connell on Tuesday afternoon, the team announced. While the details of the deal are not yet known, it is expected to keep him in Minneapolis for the foreseeable future.
“Kevin is exactly what we thought he would be when we hired him as our head coach: an innovative player, an excellent communicator and a strong leader who motivates and communicates with his players,” Vikings owner Mark Wilf said in a statement. “He has helped establish a culture that sets us up for continued success, and will continue to set the standards we need as we strive for a championship for Vikings fans.”
The team is also working on an extension for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. It is unclear when this deal will be completed.
O’Connell was scheduled to enter the final year of his contract with the Vikings this fall. He compiled a 34-17 record and reached the playoffs twice in his three seasons as the Vikings’ coach. The team went 14-3 last season and was competing for the top seed in the NFC, but Minnesota He fell to the Detroit Lions In the regular season finale and afterwards He lost his playoff game in the opening round To the Los Angeles Rams.
Although the Vikings stumbled until the end, O’Connell undoubtedly put himself in contention to win the league’s Coach of the Year award. This is his first coaching job in the league. He was hired to replace Mike Zimmer ahead of the 2022 campaign after two years as the Rams’ offensive coordinator.
“Taking on 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 would also like to thank Leah and our amazing children; their love and affection. The support allows me to perform,” O’Connell said in a statement. This mission is at a high level. “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 on the high standards we have set and the positive environment we have created.
“To Vikings fans, you are the best in the NFL. There is no greater joy than leading our team past you every Sunday and experiencing the home field advantage you create. I am thrilled for the years ahead.”
O’Connell will now try to lead the Vikings back to the postseason next fall with one of, if not the best, division in the league. The team hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2019 season and will do so Facing a question in the middle With rookie JJ McCarthy expected to return from injury following the resurgence of Sam Darnold.
But with O’Connell now solidified and Adofo-Mensah seemingly close by, the Vikings are in a great position for the future.
