In seven years coaching across four teams, O’Connell formed an idea of what kind of culture he wanted to build as a head coach – one that’s player led.
Since the Vikings gave him that opportunity in February 2022, he’s challenged his players to have input and ownership, to “create something that’s one of one in being totally connected with our players”.
“I knew that if we could get that right, we would get the football right,” he added.
O’Connell says that communication, discipline and accountability are key factors to a mindset where his players “care about doing things for a reason greater than yourself”.
He also spoke to them about being “situational master” and executing when the game is on the line, and they have become used to overcoming adversity on and off the field.
Eleven of their 13 wins in 2022 were by eight points or fewer. Last season quarterback Kirk Cousins and star receiver Justin Jefferson got injured, yet they remained in play-off contention till mid-December.
“I think it’s ingrained in the team that if there’s time on the clock, we’ve still got a chance,” said O’Connell.
“We’ve combined that euphoric experience of winning all those games in 2022 with 2023, when we got a different kind of lesson. Dealing with that adversity, I think there was a lot of organisational growth in our mindset and understanding what we’re going to be about moving forward.”
Now they are one of just two NFL teams to remain unbeaten – along with last season’s Super Bowl winners the Kansas City Chiefs – and O’Connell believes Jackson’s loss has provided them with extra inspiration.
“I think so, because it’s allowed us to focus and have a reality check of nothing is given,” he said. “We understand how blessed and fortunate we are to do this on a daily basis because it can be taken away in a moment.
“So let’s make sure we maximise every moment we have with one another, understanding how special a place this is, what the players have built here.”