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former Minnesota Viking Jim Marshall, an NFL champion and a member of the famous “Purple People Eaters,” passed away after a “long hospitalization” announced Tuesday on behalf of Marshall’s wife Susan.
He was 87 years old.
Marshall is from Kentucky. Ohio The alum was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 1960 NFL Draft, and successfully completed a 20-year career, primarily with the Vikings.
Dallas Cowboys quarterback Roger Staubach (12) is under pressure on Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Jim Marshall (70) in the 1975 NFC division playoff game at Metropolitan Stadium in Bloomington, Minnesota on December 28, 1975. (Dick Raphael/USA Today Sports)
“The entire Minnesota Viking organization laments the loss of Jim Marshall. Viking history players have not lived the ideals of toughness, friendship and passion than the iron man in history,” the Viking ownership group said in a statement.
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“The unparalleled durability and quiet leadership of Jim Tai’s franchise’s cornerstone from the start have earned the respect of his teammates and enemies throughout his 20-year career.
Minnesota Vikings defensive end gym marshall in action. (Malcolm Emmons/USA Today Sports)
“His influence on the Vikings was felt much after he left the field. Jim is always remembered as an incredible player and person. Our hearts are with his wife, Susan and Jim’s loved ones.”
Marshall set NFL Records In the case of position players, Brett Fabre beat it as a member of the Vikings in 2010 by playing 282 consecutive regular season games. Marshall also set up NFL records with 29 career fumble recovery.
Minnesota Vikings defensive side Jim Marshall (70) is on the sidelines against the Miami Dolphins in the Orange Bowl in Minneapolis on December 11, 1976. (Malcolm Emmons/USA Today Sports)
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Marshall played 19 of his 20 seasons with the Vikings. He was a key member of Minnesota’s four Super Bowl appearances during that period. He also won the NFL Championship in 1969, a year before the merger.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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