Kevin O’Connell isn’t going anywhere.
The Minnesota Vikings reached a new multi-year contract extension with O’Connell on Tuesday afternoon, the team announced. While details of the deal are not yet known, he is expected to remain in Minneapolis for the foreseeable future.
“Kevin is exactly who we thought he was when we named him our head coach: an innovative play caller, an excellent communicator and a strong leader who motivates and connects his players,” Vikings owner Mark Wilf said in a statement. “He has helped create 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.”
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the team is also working on an extension for general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. It is unclear when that deal will be completed.
O’Connell was set to enter the final year of his contract with the Vikings this fall. He has compiled a 34-17 record and has reached the playoffs twice in his three seasons as the Vikings’ head coach. The team went 14-3 this past season and was in contention for the top seed in the NFC, but they fell to the Detroit Lions in the regular season finale and then lost in their playoff game in the opening round of the Los Angeles Rams.
Although they limped to the finish line, O’Connell undoubtedly put himself in contention to win the league’s Coach of the Year award. This is his first head coaching job in the league. He was hired to replace Mike Zimmer ahead of the 2022 campaign after a two-year stint as the Rams’ offensive coordinator.
“Holding this prestigious position is something I never take for granted, and I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Wilf family for their unwavering belief in what we are building together. I would also like to thank Leah and our wonderful children; their love and support allows me to perform this task 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 them all as we continue to build on the high standards we’ve set and the positive environment we’ve created.
“To Vikings fans, you are the best in the NFL. There is no greater joy than leading our team in front of you every Sunday and experiencing the home field advantage you create. I’m excited for years to come.”
O’Connell will now look to lead the Vikings back to the postseason next fall through one of, if not the best, divisions in the league. The team also hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2019 season and will face a question at quarterback, with rookie JJ McCarthy expected to return from injury following Sam Darnold’s resurgence.
But with O’Connell getting stronger and Adofo-Mensah seemingly right behind him, the Vikings are in a great position to make that happen.