This Vikings QB timeline since 2023 proves Kevin O’Connell isn’t the guru everybody thought
Here's a breakdown of every quarterback to start a game with the Vikings under O'Connell.
Since 2023, the Minnesota Vikings' quarterback situation has become increasingly problematic, casting doubt on head coach Kevin O'Connell's ability to select and develop talent. The team's previous quarterback guru, Kevin O'Connell, is now being questioned as his quarterbacks have struggled to meet expectations while former Vikings signal-callers have thrived elsewhere.
Under O'Connell, Kirk Cousins led Minnesota to the playoffs in 2022 and again in 2023 with solid numbers. However, Cousins tore his Achilles in 2023, dealing a significant blow to the franchise. Josh Dobbs, acquired from the Arizona Cardinals, showed promise with 14 total touchdowns, but failed to replicate Cousins' success.
Nick Mullens, the backup quarterback in 2022, started three games in 2023 but couldn't secure a win. Hall, the Vikings' fifth-round pick, started one game in 2023 after recovering from a concussion but struggled, leading to his eventual release from the team.
Sam Darnold, a top three pick, had his best season in 2024 with the Vikings, totaling career highs in passing yards and touchdowns. However, he was traded to the Seattle Seahawks after the season, where he would go on to win a Super Bowl.
In 2025, J.J. McCarthy was selected by the Vikings in the first round of the NFL Draft, but he missed all of the season recovering from knee surgery. When Darnold left the team, McCarthy was given the starting job, but he struggled with injuries and underperformance, finishing with a 6-4 record in his first season as the team's starter. Despite his immaturity both on and off the field, O'Connell appeared eager to move on from Darnold to McCarthy, indicating a potential coaching red flag.
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