NFL

Kevin O’Connell Contract Extension Puts Him Into Top 10 Highest-Paid NFL Coaches

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Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell against the Los Angeles Rams.

The Minnesota Vikings and head coach Kevin O’Connell agreed to a multiyear contract extension, the organization announced on Tuesday. O’Connell’s extension makes him one of the top 10 highest-paid coaches in the NFL.

What Are The Details Of Kevin O’Connell’s Contract Extension?

After a 14-3 regular season, the Vikings signed O’Connell to a long-term contract extension.

Exact details of the contract have not been revealed. O’Connell signed a multiyear extension, which likely ranges from four to five years.

O’Connell was set to enter the final year of his contract, which reportedly pays him an estimated $5 million annually.

Due to his success, O’Connell’s new annual salary is at least double the $5 million. Charley Walters of Pioneer Press estimated that O’Connell’s new contract is probably worth $60 million over five years.

“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,” Vikings Owner/President Mark Wilf said in a statement. “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.”

Since his hiring in 2022, the Minnesota Vikings are 34-17, with two trips to the postseason.

O’Connell and the Vikings won the NFC North with a 13-4 record, losing to the New York Giants in the Wild Card Round.

After a 7-10 2023 campaign, the Vikings went 14-3 this past season, the second-most wins in franchise history. However, the Vikings lost their final two games to close the season, including a Wild Card defeat at the hands of the Los Angeles Rams.

With O’Connell’s extension out of the way, the Vikings turn their attention toward re-signing general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah.

“To Vikings fans, you are the best in the NFL,” O’Connell added. “There is no greater joy than leading our team in front of you each Sunday and experiencing the home-field advantage you create. I’m thrilled for the years ahead.”

Who Are The Highest-Paid Coaches In The NFL?

Kansas City’s Andy Reid is the highest-paid NFL coach at $20 million annually. Reid’s Chiefs are attempting to become the first team in the Super Bowl era to win three straight championships.

Denver’s Sean Payton and Pittsburgh’s Mike Tomlin earn average annual salaries of $18 million and $16 million, respectively.

With a rumored $12 million annual salary, O’Connell is tied with Baltimore’s John Harbaugh for the ninth highest-paid coach in the league.

Andy Reid Kansas City Chiefs $20 million
Sean Payton Denver Broncos $18 million
Mike Tomlin Pittsburgh Steelers $16 million
Jim Harbaugh Los Angeles Chargers $16 million
Sean McVay Los Angeles Rams $15 million
Kyle Shanahan San Francisco 49ers $14 million
Ben Johnson Chicago Bears $13 million
John Harbaugh Baltimore Ravens $12 million
Kevin O’Connell Minnesota Vikings $12 million