Kevin O'Connell is Excited About Coaching Sam Darnold

© Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports Kevin O'Connell is Excited About Coaching Sam Darnold No matter who the Vikings draft next week, there's a real chance Darnold opens the year as the starter. Author: Will Ragatz Apr 19, 2024 In this story: Minnesota Vikings 2024 NFL Draft Sam Darnold Kevin O'Connell No matter which quarterback the Vikings end up drafting in the first round next week, there's a very real chance that Sam Darnold will be leading the offense out onto the field for the first game of the regular season. The former No. 3 overall pick, who turns 27 this summer, was signed to a one-year, $10 million deal to be Minnesota's bridge to the future, so he'll have the opportunity to compete