Jim Marshall, a legendary defensive lineman for the Minnesota Vikings, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 87. He was known for holding the NFL record for most seasons played by a defender. Marshall spent 20 seasons in the league and made 270 consecutive starts for the Vikings from 1961 to 1979.
The entire Minnesota Vikings organization is mourning the loss of Jim Marshall. No player in Vikings history lived the ideals of toughness, camaraderie, and passion more than this all-time iron man. A cornerstone of the franchise from the beginning, Captain Jim’s unmatched durability and quiet leadership earned the respect of teammates and opponents throughout his 20-year career.
Marshall, who won a national championship in 1957 with Ohio State and was a two-time All-Big Ten selection, was traded to Minnesota from the Cleveland Browns in 1961. He became a fixture on the Vikings’ celebrated “Purple People Eaters” defensive line alongside Pro Football Hall of Famers Alan Page and Carl Eller.
During his career, Marshall was selected as a two-time Pro Bowler (1968, 1969) and earned a spot as a three-time second-team All-Pro. In addition, he was instrumental in leading the Vikings to the 1969 NFL championship prior to the league’s merger with the American Football League. He participated in all four of Minnesota’s Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s.
Upon his retirement in 1979, Marshall had participated in every game in Minnesota’s history, finishing with 130.5 sacks, 30 fumble recoveries, and one interception. He was inducted into Minnesota’s Ring of Honor, and his jersey number 70 has been retired by the team.
