Wow, what a week in the NFL! It is official; information on Russell Wilson trade to Broncos coming up. Also, Carson Wentz has been traded to the Washington Commanders. On Wednesday, the Minnesota Vikings announced that they have hired former Los Angeles Rams offensive coordinator Kevin O’Connell as the 10th head coach in franchise history. What does this have to do with anything?
In a statement issued by the team, Vikings president Mark Wilf called O’Connell “a strong leader, an innovative coach and an excellent communicator” in a statement issued from the team. Ready for more? Are the Seattle Seahawks done?
“Kevin played the game at all levels. Which gives him a unique connection to players, and he is highly respected throughout the league,” he said.
The team’s co-owner and chairman Zygi Wilf praised O’Connell for his “football IQ” and said he “is passionate about preparing, developing and communicating with his players.”
Seahawks Russell Wilson Trade to Broncos for Drew Lock
“Beyond the Xs and Os. Everyone we spoke with throughout this search process spoke highly of Kevin’s ability to motivate players, coaches and staff,” he said.
The Vikings are expected to hold a news conference to introduce O’Connell as their new coach Thursday.
The 36-year-old becomes the second-youngest head coach in the league behind his former boss, Sean McVay, who is eight months younger.
The Vikings had planned on hiring O’Connell. However, they were not allowed to announce his hiring while the Rams were still playing in the postseason. Los Angeles’ season ended Sunday, after defeating the Cincinnati Bengals in Super Bowl LVI.
“As I spent time with Kevin during the interview process. It became immediately clear he will be a great partner in building this football team for long-term success,” Vikings general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah said in the statement. “He understands what is critical to leading a team that wins at the highest level. Also, he has an ability to simplify the complex. Which will help us in problem-solving in all football areas. He is a genuinely positive person who will help create a high-energy internal environment.”
