The Minnesota Vikings are proving themselves to be one of the true headline acts of the NFL season. With an impressive 14-2 record, they’ve battled their way to the top of the NFC, turning more than just a few heads along the way. A significant part of their success story centers around head coach Kevin O’Connell, whose leadership has been nothing short of transformative.

What’s got everyone talking is O’Connell’s feat of revitalizing quarterback Sam Darnold, a player many had written off. The chemistry and confidence O’Connell has instilled in Darnold have translated into exceptional on-field performances, driving the Vikings towards potential glory.

Such success hasn’t gone unnoticed across the league. According to NFL insider Jay Glazer, multiple teams have set their sights on O’Connell, viewing him as a highly desirable asset. He’s entering the final year of his contract with Minnesota, and while no extension talks have commenced, his current trajectory signals big decisions ahead for the Vikings.

Now, the idea of trading for a head coach might sound like something out of left field, but it’s not without precedent. History shows that teams can indeed make such moves if they believe a coach can be a game-changer.

Remember Jon Gruden? He turned the Tampa Bay Buccaneers into a Super Bowl-winning team after being traded from the Oakland Raiders in 2002.

Then there’s Bill Belichick’s move from the Jets to the Patriots in 2000, and more recently, Sean Payton’s shift to the Denver Broncos.

The Vikings, though, would likely be reluctant to trade a key figure like O’Connell, especially if he continues to guide them deep into the postseason. His impact on the team is evident, and it’s hard to imagine Minnesota parting ways with the architect of their resurgence. As speculation swirls and the stakes grow higher, one thing is clear: the Vikings, with O’Connell at the helm, are a force to be reckoned with in the NFL playoff race.