Vikings excited about the opportunity to add Daniel Jones

Starter Sam Darnold, who signed a one-year deal this offseason, is among the top in several statistical categories and has already thrown for a career-best 21 touchdowns. Nick Mullens has stepped in and converted two third down passes to Aaron Jones, Sr. as Darnold has briefly exited contests against the Jets and Bears.

Brett Rypien, who joined the team before the season, has been running the “look team” offense to prepare Minnesota’s top-rated defense, and JJ McCarthy is attacking his rehab and development as he observes.

“I think Sam Darnold has had a great year so far. He’s been everything I personally hoped for and then some when we brought him back in this spring,” O’Connell said. “And I’m just so proud of the way he’s worked and I’m so proud of Sam for, you know, what he’s been able to do by coming into this building and really taking our group to being a major force behind we are 9-2.

“Obviously a big, big fan of Nick, and I think it’s on the screen when I call some of these plays on what it looks like Nick is only allowed to get into the game on third down and throw the ball to Aaron Jones for turnovers.” O’Connell added. “But it goes beyond that. He’s a true pro. What he’s been able to do, even last year, move our football team and really show the true professionalism of a guy who’s constantly ready to roll.

“I think Brett Rypien has done a lot of really good things since he came in here, smart, real pro and I think I gave him my third or fourth team player of the week award this morning, so he has had a positive impact,” O’Connell continued. “And then obviously JJ McCarthy, with where he was when he got hurt, my excitement level has never been higher for JJ and what he’s going to be for this organization and he’s doing a great job right now with his rehab, really turning around and being a big part of quarterback meetings And the time I get with him is always a real blessing and a big thing for me personally so I love being around him.