EAGAN, Minn. — Longtime Minnesota Vikings defensive finish Jim Marshall, who for many years held the NFL report for many consecutive video games performed, died Tuesday after a protracted hospitalization, in response to the group. He was 87.
Marshall joined the Vikings of their inaugural season in 1961 and performed in each recreation thereafter. His report of 282 consecutive video games performed (270 with the Vikings), which he established upon retiring in 1979, stood till quarterback Brett Favre broke it — whereas additionally in a Vikings uniform — in 2009.
Marshall attended a Vikings observe that season to congratulate Favre and mentioned on the time: “I instructed him I admired his profession and was actually comfortable that he was the one that’s breaking that report.”
Marshall gained a everlasting place in NFL Movies lore in 1964 when he returned a fumble the mistaken approach in a recreation towards the San Francisco 49ers, celebrating what he thought was a landing however as a substitute was scored a security. However his profession accomplishments far outweighed that gaffe.
He was a Vikings captain for 14 seasons and appeared in 4 Tremendous Bowls as a part of the franchise’s famed Purple Individuals Eaters protection. Though sacks didn’t turn into an official statistic till 1982, a analysis mission coordinated by Professional Soccer Reference credited him with 130.5, which might tie him for No. 22 in NFL historical past.
“The complete Minnesota Vikings group is mourning the lack of Jim Marshall. No participant in Vikings historical past lived the beliefs of toughness, camaraderie and fervour greater than the all-time iron man,” Vikings house owners Mark and Zygi Wilf mentioned in a press release.
“A cornerstone of the franchise from the start, Captain Jim’s unmatched sturdiness and quiet management earned the respect of teammates and opponents all through his 20-year profession. Jim led by instance, and there was no finer instance for others to comply with. His impression on the Vikings was felt lengthy after he left the sector. Jim will all the time be remembered as an incredible participant and particular person. Our hearts are along with his spouse, Susan, and all of Jim’s family members.”
