Starter Sam Darnold, who signed a one-year deal this offseason, ranks among the top in multiple statistical categories and has already scored 21 career touchdowns. Nick Mullens has stepped in and converted two third downs on passes to Aaron Jones, Sr., as Darnold briefly left games against the Jets and Bears.

Brett Rypien, who joined the team before the season, runs the look team offense to prepare Minnesota’s top-rated defense, and JJ McCarthy attacks his rehab and development while observing.

“I think Sam Darnold has had a fantastic year so far. He’s been everything I personally hoped for, and even more so when we brought him in here in the spring,” O’Connell said. “And I’m just so proud of the way he’s worked, and I’m so proud of Sam, for what he’s been able to do by coming into this building and really making our group a big force behind it. we are 9-2.

“Obviously a big, big fan of Nick, and I think that shows when I call some of those plays where it seems like Nick is only allowed to come into the game on third down and get the ball to Aaron Jones throwing for conversions,” O’Connell added. “But it goes further than that. He is a true professional. What he was able to do even last year, put our football team in motion and really showed the true professionalism of a man who is always ready to go to go.”

“I think Brett Rypien has done a lot of good things since he came here, a smart, real professional, and I think I gave him my third or fourth team player of the week award this morning, so he’s having a positive impact ” O’Connell continued. “And then obviously JJ McCarthy, with where he was when he got injured, my excitement level has never been higher for JJ and what he’s going to be for this organization, and he’s doing great right now. work with his rehabilitation, really.” the corner to be an important part of quarterback meetings. And the time I spend with him is always a real blessing and a great thing for me personally.