Vikings coach admires Jets GM Darren Mougey

O’Connell Praises Jets’ GM Mousey During Offseason Conversations

Throughout the Jets’ offseason, Kevin O’Connell found himself reaching out to his former college roommate, exchanging various messages. And to clarify, he wasn’t just flattering GM Darren Mousey for no reason.

“Most of the time, I was complimenting him on how they managed internal matters—like a strong draft or re-signing running back Breece Hall,” O’Connell shared during a Zoom call before hitting the golf course at the American Century Championship.

He went on to express his admiration, stating, “I believe his plan was really well thought out. Many teams invest a lot of time into strategizing, but execution is what really matters. I’m not at all surprised by how Darren has approached things.”

O’Connell and Mousey, who was once a backup quarterback for the Jets and is now recognized as one of the league’s strongest GMs, played together at San Diego State. They have kept in touch despite their different NFL journeys.

O’Connell noted, “Darren doesn’t walk into work feeling unprepared, and I think that’s becoming more evident.” He added that Mousey’s willingness to make tough choices aligns with his consistent vision for the organization. As a former Jet, it’s reassuring to see the team doing well under Darren and head coach Aaron Glenn.

After trading Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner for draft picks during the 2025 rebuild season, the 2026 Jets are set up with at least six draft picks, partly due to a modest free agency expenditure of $88.4 million. This upcoming draft is expected to add a new defensive starter, along with three first-round rookies, including pass catchers Kenyon Saddiq and Omar Cooper Jr., plus a stopgap quarterback in Geno Smith.

The Jets extended Hall and guard Joe Tippmann’s contracts, ensuring that all ten non-quarterback starters will be under contract through 2027.

The idea seems to be crafting elements that will support Smith’s eventual young successor, allowing him to start strong.

O’Connell’s Vikings have recorded a 43-25 record over four seasons with eight different starting quarterbacks, and with Kyler Murray likely to take over as the ninth, they serve as a possible model for assembling a playoff team that doesn’t rely heavily on the quarterback position.

His offensive strategy focuses on creating simple completions to set up bigger plays.

Regarding the American Century Championship slated for July 10-12 at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, O’Connell will be participating for the first time. He’ll be joined by Seahawks head coach Mike McDonald and Titans coach Robert Saleh among a field of over 90 players.