Sports

Kevin O’Connell, MN Vikings Agree To Multi-Year Contract Extension

The Minnesota Vikings announced Tuesday that they have reached a multiyear contract extension with Head Coach Kevin O'Connell.

Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell watches his team warmup before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, in Minneapolis.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell watches his team warmup before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears, Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Bruce Kluckhohn)

EAGAN, MN — The Minnesota Vikings announced Tuesday that they have reached a multiyear contract extension with Head Coach Kevin O’Connell. Terms of the deal were not yet available.

O’Connell, 39, made NFL history as the first head coach to achieve 14 wins in a quarterback’s debut season with a team, leading the Vikings with Sam Darnold at the helm.

He also joined an elite group as just the fifth head coach to secure multiple 13-win seasons within his first three years.

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In 2024, O’Connell guided Minnesota to an impressive 14 victories—more than doubling the preseason projection of 6.5 wins by oddsmakers—cementing his place in the conversation for Coach of the Year honors.

"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," Vikings Owner and President Mark Wilf said 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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Vikings Owner and Chairman Zygi Wilf added the following:

"There is no question this team is on the right trajectory under Kevin's continued leadership. His authenticity, passion and positive energy, along with his impressive understanding of the game, has helped lead to the success we've experienced over the past three years and will be foundational blocks on which to build moving forward,

O'Connell said "it is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota Vikings."

"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.

"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."

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