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Kevin Seifert
EAGAN, Minn. — Longtime Minnesota Vikings defensive finish Jim Marshall, who for many years held the NFL file for many consecutive video games performed, died Tuesday after an extended hospitalization, in line with the workforce. He was 87.
Marshall joined the Vikings of their inaugural season in 1961 and performed in each sport thereafter. His file 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 follow that season to congratulate Favre and mentioned on the time: “I instructed him I admired his profession and was actually blissful that he was the one that’s breaking that file.”
Marshall gained a everlasting place in NFL Movies lore in 1964 when he returned a fumble the unsuitable means in a sport in opposition to the San Francisco 49ers, celebrating what he thought was a landing however as a substitute was 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 develop into an official statistic till 1982, a analysis challenge 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 keenness 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 affect on the Vikings was felt lengthy after he left the sector. Jim will at all times be remembered as an incredible participant and individual. Our hearts are together with his spouse, Susan, and all of Jim’s family members.”
