EAGAN, Minn. — Kevin O’Connell, the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, initiated a playful jab at veteran safety Harrison Smith earlier this season, not realizing that it would lead to a weekly routine between them. The bond between the head coach and the team’s most senior player is reinforced by their closeness in age, which creates a unique dynamic.
O’Connell lightheartedly remarked to Smith, “Hey, you never come see me anymore.” To which Smith replied, “I’ll come by Friday. What time?” Keeping his promise, Smith brought coffee to O’Connell’s office later that week. Their conversation meandered from football tactics to discussions about family, establishing enough rapport to make these meetings a regular occurrence.
Since that day, Smith has been visiting O’Connell’s office every Friday for about half an hour. Reflecting on their relationship after a recent practice, Smith noted, “We’ve always had more of a peer relationship. He is my boss, but we’re closer in age. I’ve definitely gotten to know more about him as a coach, a player, a person, the whole thing.”
O’Connell has successfully led the Vikings to a commendable 14-3 record, a turnaround that surprised many who predicted a last-place finish for the team. He stands out as a candidate for the NFL Coach of the Year award, not only for his skills as an offensive strategist but also for his leadership qualities. His past as a backup quarterback has equipped him with an understanding that enhances his connectivity with players.
The head coach places significant emphasis on understanding the players’ backgrounds and motivations, a vital aspect of his role. Among the players, O’Connell appreciates his growing rapport with Smith, a six-time Pro Bowl selection who is currently in his 13th NFL season. The coach remarked, “He can be such a good gauge of the locker room and the pulse of the building. It’s just his unique ability to be around guys who are a lot younger than him … it’s been a cool part of this year getting that time with him.”
As Smith approaches his 36th birthday just a week before the Super Bowl, he harbors hopes to reach the championship game with a franchise that yearns for a title. The Vikings are set to commence their playoff campaign against the Los Angeles Rams in a wild-card matchup that will take place in Arizona due to wildfire concerns in California.
O’Connell has made an effort to steer clear of discussing Smith’s future and the uncertainties that come with it. “I’m like, ‘Hey, man, you’re playing pretty darn well. What are you thinking?’” O’Connell said, smiling at the challenge of broaching the subject. Smith often laughs and swiftly changes the topic during these exchanges.
Notably, O’Connell holds Smith in high regard, even naming him when he reflects on the team’s Norseman logo. Smith has become an invaluable asset to defensive coordinator Brian Flores, particularly in executing an aggressive, disguise-heavy defensive scheme. Before a crucial game against Atlanta, Flores enlisted Smith to address the defense and encourage them to maintain composure, recognizing that his message would resonate well coming from a player with such respect among teammates.
“I love coaching him,” Flores expressed. “He’s allowed me to be more creative and attempt to do some things … because of his acumen, because of his leadership.” Smith, though occasionally hesitant to embrace his role as the oldest player on the roster, takes pride in being a reliable source of advice and mentorship for younger players, particularly his secondary partner, Cam Bynum.
Bynum holds Smith in such high esteem that he bought him a piano after his rookie year, once he learned about Smith’s interest in music. “A lot of conversations we have are about music because he plays guitar. So it’s like, ‘Why not learn piano too?’” Bynum shared, emphasizing their bond.
As Smith’s football career progresses, his impact on the Vikings organization is poised to endure, irrespective of when he finally decides to retire. O’Connell summed up this sentiment, stating, “You just respect everything about how he operates, how he treats people, how he communicates … I really enjoyed the time that I get with him.”
