Kevin O’Connell Secures Multi-Year Extension: A Legacy of Winning andq t,Innovation
EAGAN, MN – The Minnesota Vikings announced today that Head Coach Kevin O’Connell has agreed to a multi-year contract extension, solidifying his role as a cornerstone of the organization’s future.
“Kevin is exactly who we believed him to be when we hired him—an innovative play caller, an excellent communicator, and a strong leader who motivates and connects with his players,” said Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf. “He has established a culture of sustained success and set the standard we need as we pursue a championship for Vikings fans.”
O’Connell’s tenure has been nothing short of historic. In just three seasons, he has compiled a 34-17 (.667) regular season record, becoming the first coach in Vikings history to achieve multiple 13+ win seasons (13 in 2022, 14 in 2024). He joins elite company, becoming just the third head coach in NFL history to achieve multiple 13-win seasons within his first three years, alongside Matt LaFleur and George Seifert. Notably, he is only the second head coach since 1950 to reach this milestone with different starting quarterbacks—Kirk Cousins in 2022 and Sam Darnold in 2024.
“There is no question this team is on the right trajectory under Kevin’s continued leadership,” said Vikings Owner/Chairman Zygi Wilf. “His authenticity, passion, and understanding of the game have been instrumental in our success, and they remain the foundation as we move forward.”
A Season to Remember
The 2024 campaign was another feather in O’Connell’s cap. Leading the Vikings to a 14-3 record, the second-most wins in franchise history, he orchestrated a remarkable nine-game winning streak and secured the team’s second playoff berth in three years. The Vikings finished ninth in scoring (25.4 points per game) and seventh in passing offense (237.8 yards per game), showcasing O’Connell’s offensive acumen.
O’Connell also became the fastest coach in Vikings history to reach 30 wins, achieving the milestone in just 46 games—beating franchise legends like Bud Grant and Dennis Green. His success in one-possession games is unparalleled, boasting a 26-9 record (.743), second only to Hall of Famer Guy Chamberlin in NFL history.
Player Development Under O’Connell
Under O’Connell’s guidance, several players reached career milestones:
- Sam Darnold had a breakout 2024 season, leading the team to 14 wins and earning his first Pro Bowl nod. He ranked fifth in the NFL in passing yards (4,319) and touchdowns (35).
- Justin Jefferson, already a superstar, flourished further, earning two First-Team All-Pro honors (2022, 2024) and being named AP Offensive Player of the Year in 2022. Jefferson led the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) that year, becoming the youngest player ever to achieve the feat.
- Andrew DePaola (LS) and Andrew Van Ginkel (OLB) also shone, earning All-Pro honors during O’Connell’s tenure.
Vikings’ Future Under O’Connell
Reflecting on his journey, O’Connell expressed gratitude: “It is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota Vikings. I am deeply thankful to the Wilf family for their belief in what we are building. To our fans, you are the best in the NFL. There’s no greater joy than leading this team in front of you every Sunday. I’m thrilled for the years ahead and will give everything I have to bring a Super Bowl to Minnesota.”
As O’Connell enters this new chapter, the Vikings have all the pieces to build on their recent success. With stars like Jefferson, Addison, and a re-energized roster, Minnesota’s pursuit of its first championship feels more attainable than ever.
Accolades Under O’Connell
First-Team All-Pro:
- Justin Jefferson (2022, 2024)
- Andrew DePaola (2022, 2024)
Second-Team All-Pro:
- Kene Nwangwu (KR, 2022)
- Andrew Van Ginkel (OLB, 2024)
Pro Bowl Selections:
- Sam Darnold (2024)
- Justin Jefferson (2022, 2024)
- Dalvin Cook (2022)
- And more…
With his innovative approach and winning culture, Kevin O’Connell is proving to be the ideal leader for a franchise poised to make history.
