Live Update: Kevin O’Connell Calls for Offensive Line Upgrade After Vikings’ Playoff Exit
The Minnesota Vikings were eliminated from the playoffs with a 27-9 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round, and head coach Kevin O’Connell wasted no time addressing the team’s biggest need heading into the 2025 season: a stronger offensive line.
Despite a successful 14-3 season, the loss highlighted a crucial weakness that ultimately led to their downfall. O’Connell was particularly upset with the team’s inability to protect quarterback Sam Darnold, who endured a historic nine-sack performance. Darnold, who was sacked six times in the first half alone, now holds a playoff record that hasn’t been seen in 25 years.
“We need a better offensive line, no question about it,” O’Connell remarked, reflecting on the significant pressure his team faced.
The Vikings’ struggles in the trenches were evident in two key losses this season—against the Detroit Lions and the Rams—where both teams relentlessly pressured Darnold. The issue was amplified by the Vikings’ inability to adjust to opposing defensive fronts, which are among the most explosive in the league.
Offensive Line Troubles and Injuries
Before the Wild Card loss, concerns about the Vikings’ offensive line were already on the radar. The team had a concerning 54.3% pressure rate against the blitz, a statistic that only worsened after their defeat. Darnold’s average hold time of 2.93 seconds was the longest in the league, and the Vikings’ inability to provide him with adequate protection showed.
Additionally, the team lost Christian Darrisaw, their star left tackle, to injury. Darrisaw had been playing at a Pro Bowl level before his setback. While the Vikings managed to adjust in his absence, the need for improved protection up front was painfully clear during their playoff exit.
O’Connell’s 2025 Focus
Despite the disappointing finish, this marks O’Connell’s second consecutive season of winning 13+ games and being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs. With Kirk Cousins out and Darnold in his first season, some might view this as a success, but that’s not the standard O’Connell or the franchise has set.
As the offseason begins, the Vikings are poised to make moves in the NFL Draft and possibly in free agency, provided they have the right cap space, to solidify their offensive line and make another push for the playoffs in 2025.
