Vikings 50 All Time Greatest Players In Franchise History

The Minnesota Vikings have a long and storied history, with numerous standout players who have left a lasting impact on the franchise. In this article, we will take a trip down memory lane and explore the 50 greatest Vikings players in franchise history.

1. Fran Tarkenton (1961-1966, 1972-1978)

Fran Tarkenton is undoubtedly one of the greatest players in Vikings history. As the team's quarterback, he was a fearless leader who revolutionized the position with his agility and ability to extend plays. Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances and holds numerous franchise records.

2. Adrian Peterson (2007-2016)

Adrian Peterson, known as "AP," was a force to be reckoned with during his tenure with the Vikings. His combination of power, speed, and agility made him one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history. Peterson holds several franchise records and was a seven-time Pro Bowler.

Vikings 50: All-Time Greatest Players in Franchise History

by Barbara I. Bond(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11015 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages
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3. Randy Moss (1998-2004, 2010)

Randy Moss revolutionized the wide receiver position with his exceptional speed and ability to make acrobatic catches. He formed a lethal partnership with quarterback Daunte Culpepper and helped propel the Vikings' offense to new heights. Moss is widely regarded as one of the most talented receivers in NFL history.

4. Paul Krause (1968-1979)

Paul Krause was a ball-hawking safety who holds the NFL record for most interceptions in a career with 81. During his time with the Vikings, Krause was a crucial part of the "Purple People Eaters" defense, helping the team reach four Super Bowls. He was enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998.

5. Alan Page (1967-1978)

Alan Page was a dominant force on the Vikings' defensive line, known for his sheer strength and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks. He was a key member of the "Purple People Eaters" and played a significant role in the team's Super Bowl appearances. Page was the first defensive player to win the NFL MVP award in 1971.

6. Chris Doleman (1985-1993, 1999)

Chris Doleman was a fearless defensive end who showcased a rare combination of size, strength, and speed. He wreaked havoc on opposing quarterbacks, accumulating 150.5 sacks during his Hall of Fame career. Doleman was a key part of the Vikings' success in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

7. Carl Eller (1964-1978)

Carl Eller was a dominant defensive end who, along with Alan Page, formed a formidable duo on the Vikings' defensive line. His exceptional agility and technique made him a nightmare for opposing offensive linemen. Eller was a six-time Pro Bowler and earned induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004.

8. Jim Marshall (1961-1979)

Jim Marshall was an ironman defensive end who holds the NFL record for most consecutive games played with 282. His durability and exceptional quickness allowed him to consistently disrupt opposing offenses. Marshall played a key role in the Vikings' success during the 1960s and 1970s.

9. John Randle (1990-2000)

John Randle was an undersized defensive tackle who made up for his lack of size with an unmatched motor and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks. Despite going undrafted, Randle developed into one of the most dominant interior linemen in NFL history. He was a seven-time Pro Bowler and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010.

10. Randall McDaniel (1988-1999)

Randall McDaniel was an elite offensive guard who provided a crucial anchor for the Vikings' offensive line. His exceptional strength and athleticism helped pave the way for the team's running game and provided solid pass protection. McDaniel earned eleven Pro Bowl selections and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009.

These are just the top ten players on the list of the 50 greatest Vikings players. Other notable players who have left a lasting impact on the franchise include Cris Carter, Matt Blair, Keith Millard, Joey Browner, and Steve Hutchinson, among many others.

As the Vikings continue to build upon their rich history, current players like Dalvin Cook, Danielle Hunter, and Justin Jefferson have the potential to join the ranks of the greatest Vikings players.

Whether it be their impact on the field or their contributions to the community, these players have shaped the Vikings franchise and left an indelible mark on the team's history. The next time you watch the Vikings take the field, remember the legends who paved the way for the current generation of players.

Vikings 50: All-Time Greatest Players in Franchise History

by Barbara I. Bond(Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11015 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	225 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Out of the hundreds of players that have toiled at Metropolitan Stadium and the Metrodome, this collection celebrates only the 50 greatest—the Minnesota Vikings who stood head and shoulders above their peers. Interviews with superstars such as Ron Yary, Paul Krause, Fran Tarkenton, Randy Moss, Adrian Peterson, and more are featured along with authentic accounts from their teammates and coaches. The book explores each competitor’s beginnings as well as his greatest moments on the gridiron, concluding with what he has been doing since his playing days ended. Featuring a compilation of action photographs in addition to personal images, this reflection reveals the never-before-told stories of these elite heroes, making it the perfect companion for devoted Vikings fans of all ages.