Interview with Kevin O’Connell: Minnesota Vikings head coach on Khyree Jackson, undefeated record and NFL London game

In seven years as coach of four teams, O’Connell got a sense of what kind of culture he wanted to build as a head coach — one that is led by the players.

Since the Vikings gave him that opportunity in February 2022, he has challenged his players to have input and ownership, to “create something that is unique by being fully connected to our players.”

“I knew if we could get that right, we would get the football right,” he added.

O’Connell says communication, discipline and responsibility are key factors in a mentality where his players “want to do things for a reason bigger than yourself”.

He also spoke to them about being a “situational master” and executing when the game is on the line, and they have become accustomed to overcoming adversity on and off the field.

Eleven of their thirteen wins in 2022 were by eight points or less. Last season, quarterback Kirk Cousins ​​and star receiver Justin Jefferson were injured, yet they remained in playoff contention until mid-December.

“I think it’s ingrained in the team that when there’s time on the clock, we still have a chance,” O’Connell said.

“We combined that euphoric experience of winning all those competitions in 2022 with 2023, when we got a different kind of lesson. To deal with that adversity, I think there has been a lot of organizational growth in our way of thinking and in understanding what we are doing. is about moving forward.”

Now they are one of only two NFL teams to remain undefeated – along with last season’s Super Bowl winners, the Kansas City Chiefs – and O’Connell believes the loss of Jackson has provided them with additional inspiration.

“I think so, because it allows us to focus and get a reality check that doesn’t accomplish anything,” he said. “We understand how blessed and fortunate we are to do this on a daily basis because it can be taken away in an instant.

“So let’s make sure we maximize every moment we have together, understanding how special this place is and what the players have built here.”