Vikings coach Kevin O'Connell reflects on 2022 draft decision regarding Kyle Hamilton
The Minnesota Vikings head coach admits he continues to ponder the move that saw the Baltimore Ravens select the All-Pro safety with the 14th overall pick.
Minnesota Vikings head coach Kevin O'Connell has acknowledged that the decision to pass on safety Kyle Hamilton during the 2022 NFL Draft remains a point of reflection for him. The comments follow a recent round of golf between O'Connell and Hamilton, where the coach praised the Baltimore Ravens defender's character and on-field ability.
The interaction occurred against the backdrop of joint practices held this week between the Ravens and the Vikings, which provided an opportunity for players and coaches from both organisations to compete and reconnect. Ravens editorial director Ryan Mink shared details of the conversation on social media, noting that O'Connell stated he "thinks the world of him as a person and player."
In the 2022 draft, the Vikings held the No. 12 overall pick but chose to trade it, along with the 46th selection, to the Detroit Lions. In return, Minnesota received the 32nd, 34th, and 66th overall picks. The Lions used their acquired selection to draft wide receiver Jameson Williams, while the Ravens selected Hamilton with the 14th pick.
O'Connell admitted that the decision has crossed his mind more than once, often considering how Hamilton could have been a member of the Vikings organisation. At the time, Minnesota used its 32nd pick to select safety Lewis Cine, who is no longer with the club.
Since arriving in Baltimore, Hamilton has established himself as a cornerstone of the Ravens defence. He has earned multiple All-Pro honours, including two First Team selections and one Second Team selection, cementing his status as one of the league's elite defenders.
O'Connell’s praise focused initially on Hamilton’s character rather than his statistical achievements, describing the Ravens as "very fortunate to have him." The reflection highlights the ongoing impact of draft-day decisions on roster construction and team identity within the NFL.
