Minnesota Vikings have a secret weapon to unleash on the NFL this season, and Kevin O’Connell can use it in multiple ways
Each season under Kevin O’Connell, the Minnesota Vikings have evolved. This season, they have a potential trick up their sleeve.
Year over year, Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has done a good job molding the team in its own image.
There has been growth and development in all phases, especially on defense with Brian Flores running the show. On offense, O’Connell has introduced new wrinkles each season, including making adjustments for each quarterback.
What could O’Connell have in store for the 2026 season? There is one interesting element that could separate the Vikings from other teams in the NFL.
Trick plays could be in the Vikings’ future
One thing that O’Connell hasn’t done a ton of is run trick plays. There have been some really interesting ones throughout his tenure, but the creativity hasn’t been what you would expect from an offensive guru.
Last year, they ran a fun trick play with running back Cam Akers, throwing a pass downfield to Josh Oliver for a touchdown against the Cleveland Browns in Week 5.
Now, read the above tweet. Akers was a high school quarterback. Why does that matter here? The Vikings added two players who were former quarterbacks this offseason: wide receiver Jauan Jennings and punter Johnny Hekker.
Over the last few seasons, the Vikings have had seven passes come from players who weren’t quarterbacks. Two of those players in Akers and punter Ryan Wright were high school quarterbacks.
- 2022: Justin Jefferson: 2-2 for 34 yards, Ryan Wright: 1-2 for 13 yards
- 2023: Justin Jefferson: 0-1
- 2024: Justin Jefferson: 1-1 for 22 yards
- 2025: Cam Akers: 1-1 for 32 yards and one touchdown
With the additions of Jennings and Hekker, that could add an interesting element to the Vikings’ offense and special teams. They have interesting stat lines during their careers.
- Jennings: 2-2 for 50 yards and two touchdowns
- Hekker: 15-26 for 193 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception, and 12 first downs
It hasn’t been something that O’Connell has leaned into during his tenure, but something he should have considered using more, especially with Wright being a former high school quarterback. Not attempting a pass in the last three years is interesting, which is a potential red flag for this not being a priority for O’Connell. However, creativity seems to be a priority this season, especially with the addition of Frank Smith as the assistant head coach.
This is something to keep an eye on this season, as it could be the turning point in multiple games.
