Top NFL Reporters Weigh In on Kevin O’Connell’s Vikings Future
The Minnesota Vikings’ subpar 4-8 start to the season (they are 6-8 now) raised some questions about everyone within the organization, including fourth-year head coach Kevin O’Connell. A report from two of the top newsbreakers in the business suggests his future will be with the Vikings beyond 2025.
On Saturday, NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero and Ian Rapoport evaluated the coaching fates of every eliminated franchise — including the Vikings.
They wrote, “The Vikings extended Kevin O’Connell’s contract last January, and nothing that’s happened since has affected ownership’s belief in their head coach.”
Kevin O’Connell Isn’t Going Anywhere
Hired in the 2022 offseason, O’Connell has guided his franchise to a 40-25 record in the regular season, 7th-best in the NFL. This year’s 6-8 hasn’t been able to dispel the belief among the ownership group in the reigning Coach of the Year, though the reporters suggest they aren’t satisfied.
“To be sure, this 6-8 season has been a disappointment. After going 14-3 last season, the Vikings have experienced a mess of injuries — including to quarterback J.J. McCarthy, whose development was a priority after he missed his entire rookie season because of meniscus surgery. (McCarthy has played better in recent weeks and now is 4-4 as the starter.)”
Sam Darnold was let go nine months ago, and the keys were given to McCarthy. The first-year starter has scored 14 touchdowns (11 passing, three rushing) but also registered 11 interceptions. Minnesota’s inconsistent quarterback play has been a major factor in the underwhelming record.
Eleven months ago, when the Vikings handed their skipper a long-term contract extension, Owner/President Mark Wilf stated, “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. 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.”
“Minnesota has many decisions to make this offseason with an expensive, veteran roster,” Pelissero and Rapoport added.
The roster was built for two seasons, but there will be some turnover given this year’s struggles. Harrison Smith is a candidate for retirement. The Vikings have some decisions to make regarding Aaron Jones, Javon Hargrave, T.J. Hockenson, and Ryan Kelly in February and March, as the front office faces a cap crunch.
A major element will be the quarterback room. McCarthy has shown growth over the past two games, but it’s hard to believe the Vikings don’t add any competition or insurance in his third year.
“Another issue to address: Defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ contract is up after the season. The Vikings hope to work out a deal to retain him.”
Flores’s defense has helped the Vikings stay in several games this year; they had no business being in with the lack of offensive production. His unit has been excellent for the most part in his three years with the club. Keeping him in the building should be a priority for the Vikings.
If Flores fails to generate head coaching interest, the Vikings are likely his best shot at changing that in the future, with a defense built for his scheme with various handpicked players.
Editor’s Note: Information from PFF, Over The Cap, and Sports Reference helped with this article.