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Kevin O'Connell reflects on draft decision to pass on Kyle Hamilton

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 10:43 PM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Kevin O'Connell reflects on draft decision to pass on Kyle Hamilton

Summary

Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell expressed regret over not drafting safety Kyle Hamilton in 2022. During joint practices with the Ravens, O'Connell acknowledged considering the potential impact of Hamilton, selected by Baltimore at 14th overall. Hamilton has since emerged as an All-Pro and Pro Bowl player, while the Vikings' choice, Louis Cine, struggled with injuries and was waived in 2024. O'Connell's remarks highlight the ramifications of the decision amid current safety depth concerns for the Vikings.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•O'Connell admitted to having regrets about not drafting Hamilton.
•Hamilton became an All-Pro and Pro Bowler with the Ravens.
•Cine suffered a severe injury in 2022 and struggled thereafter.
•The Vikings have current depth issues at safety.
•O'Connell's comments come during joint practices with Baltimore.

Latest Updates

10:43 PMYahoo Sports — Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Asked If He Regrets This Draft Decision

What they're saying

"
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell has a major regret in his coaching career, and it may not be one you think. The coach told multiple media outlets that he regrets passing on a specific player in the 2022 NFL draft.If you need a bit of a refresher, the Vikings made a major trade in […] The post Vikings’ Kevin O’Connell Asked If He Regrets This Draft Decision appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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