Minnesota Vikings Celebrate Postseason Success with Major Awards

The Minnesota Vikings’ impressive 2024 season continues to be recognized, with the team earning two major postseason honors. The Sporting News recently announced its annual awards, naming quarterback Sam Darnold as the Comeback Player of the Year and head coach Kevin O’Connell as the Coach of the Year. These accolades highlight the resilience and leadership that defined the Vikings’ season.

Sam Darnold’s Remarkable Comeback Season

Sam Darnold’s journey to winning the Comeback Player of the Year award is nothing short of inspiring. After struggling in previous seasons, Darnold found new life in Minnesota, leading the Vikings’ offense with confidence and precision. His exceptional performance not only secured him this honor but also positioned him as a frontrunner for the Associated Press Comeback Player of the Year award, set to be announced at NFL Honors before the Super Bowl.

Darnold becomes just the second Vikings player to win this award since its inception in 2008, following Adrian Peterson’s legendary 2,097-yard rushing season in 2012. His victory was decisive, earning 503 votes, far surpassing runner-up Joe Burrow, who received 144 votes after a strong return from injury. Chargers running back JK Dobbins, who made a comeback from a torn Achilles, placed third with 109 votes. Darnold’s recognition emphasizes not just recovery from adversity but also his significant improvement and late-career resurgence.

Kevin O’Connell’s Leadership Earns Coach of the Year Honors

For head coach Kevin O’Connell, this award is another testament to his outstanding leadership and adaptability. O’Connell had already been named the NFC and NFL Coach of the Year by the Pro Football Writers of America earlier in January, making this latest honor even more special.

Despite facing quarterback uncertainties due to injuries, O’Connell masterfully adjusted the Vikings’ offensive scheme. He played a crucial role in Darnold’s career-best season, skillfully navigating the team’s challenges after rookie first-round pick J.J. McCarthy suffered a preseason knee injury. Under O’Connell’s guidance, Minnesota’s offense ranked No. 12 in passing and No. 9 in scoring, demonstrating the effectiveness of his play-calling and strategic adjustments.

At just 39 years old, O’Connell has already established himself as one of the NFL’s brightest coaching minds. His peers recognized his impact, awarding him 14 votes—far ahead of runners-up Dan Campbell and Andy Reid, who received just three votes each.

A Season Worth Remembering

Although the Vikings’ season ended in heartbreaking fashion, these postseason awards validate the hard work and resilience displayed throughout the year. Darnold’s comeback story and O’Connell’s strategic brilliance have cemented their places as key figures in the franchise’s success. With a strong foundation in place, the Vikings are poised for even greater achievements in the seasons to come.