As the Minnesota Vikings stand on the cusp of clinching their first-ever No. 1 seed in the NFC, multiple NFL teams are reportedly eyeing to hire Kevin O'Connell as head coach. The news was shared by Fox Sports' Jay Glazer.
Consequently, NFL fans are now scratching their heads.
"Vikings aren’t letting this happen," wrote one fan.
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"When pigs fly this will happen," commented another fan.
Meanwhile, a third fan wrote: "This is so dumb. No wonder Fox’s pregame is in the toilet."
Some fans cracked jokes on Underdog NFL using the word "trade" for coach.
"I didn't know you can trade for a coach LOL," one fan added.
Kevin O'Connell's contract expires after the 2025 season. The Vikings have not yet opened discussions regarding a long-term contract extension.
In light of this, Glazer reported:
"The reason why is that next year, the last year of his deal, they've had no contract talks yet at all."
With no discussions on the horizon for an extension, it appears some teams may like to add him. Glazer added that O'Connell, who holds considerable leverage, might choose not to re-sign with Minnesota.
Kevin O'Connell turns Vikings into one of the most formidable teams in the NFL
Kevin O'Connell, in his third season with the Vikings, has led the team to a 14-2 record going into the Week 18 matchup. With the NFC North crown and the coveted No. 1 playoff seed on the line, the Minnesota Vikings will play against the Detroit Lions this Sunday.
O'Connell's successful coaching stint has been especially impressive given the injuries to key players, including star quarterback Kirk Cousins and wide receiver Justin Jefferson.
The head coach's efforts have gotten him into the conversation for Coach of the Year. Also, after a 7-10 season last year, the Vikings were in turmoil. However, under O'Connell's guidance, the team has bounced back with a top-notch offense and a Top 10 defense.
Moreover, O'Connell’s leadership with the unexpected rise of QB Sam Darnold has given the Vikings hope for a deep playoff run.
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