The Minnesota Vikings announced Tuesday they have agreed to terms on a multi-year contract extension for head coach Kevin O’Connell.
O’Connell is 34-19 through three seasons as the Vikings’ head coach. Owner and President Mark Wilf released a statement on Tuesday.
“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,” Wilf said. “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.”
The team did not release the terms of the contract. O’Connell did say at his season-ending news conference that he wanted to sign an extension in Minnesota. There were reports before their loss at Detroit that multiple teams would inquire about trading for O’Connell. He was going to enter the 2025 season on the final year of his current contract, but now he’s staying in Minnesota long-term.
Kevin O’Connell makes history
Why it matters: O’Connell is the first coach in Vikings’ history to have multiple 13-win seasons in his first three years. He led Minnesota to a 13-4 regular season mark in 2022, and a 14-3 mark this past season. He’s just the third NFL coach to do that in his first three years.
“It is an absolute honor to continue leading the Minnesota Vikings,” O’Connell said in a team-issued statement. “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. 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.
By the numbers
Digging deeper: O’Connell became the fastest head coach in Vikings’ history to 30 wins, doing it in 46 games. Dennis Green got there in 48 games, Bud Grant in 50, Jerry Burns in 51 and Mike Zimmer in 54.
Among active head coaches, O’Connell’s .667 win percentage in his first three regular seasons is tied for fourth.
He’s the second head coach in NFL history to win at least 13 games twice in three seasons with different quarterbacks. He did it with Kirk Cousins two years ago, and Sam Darnold this past season.