Top 10 Greatest Minnesota Vikings of All-Time

By Edcel Panganiban April 21, 2024 13:10

The Minnesota Vikings, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), have been home to some of the most iconic players in the history of the sport.

From legendary quarterbacks to hard-hitting defenders, the Vikings have seen a plethora of talented individuals don their purple and gold.

Here, we take a closer look at the top 10 greatest Minnesota Vikings of all time, celebrating their remarkable achievements and lasting impact on the team and the league.

1. Fran Tarkenton

Position: Quarterback
Years with Vikings: 1961–1966, 1972–1978
Accolades: 9-time Pro Bowler, NFL MVP (1975), NFL Hall of Fame inductee (1986)

Fran Tarkenton is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. During his time with the Vikings, he led the team to three Super Bowl appearances and set numerous passing records.

2. Alan Page

Position: Defensive Tackle
Years with Vikings: 1967–1978
Accolades: 9-time Pro Bowler, NFL MVP (1971), NFL Hall of Fame inductee (1988)

Alan Page, a dominant force on the defensive line, played a pivotal role in the Vikings' "Purple People Eaters" defense. He was a disruptive force, earning numerous accolades, including the NFL MVP award in 1971, a rare feat for a defensive player.

3. Randy Moss

Position: Wide Receiver
Years with Vikings: 1998–2004, 2010
Accolades: 6-time Pro Bowler, Offensive Rookie of the Year (1998)

Randy Moss, known for his electrifying speed and remarkable catching ability, made an immediate impact in the NFL. His partnership with quarterback Daunte Culpepper resulted in record-breaking performances.

4. Cris Carter

Position: Wide Receiver
Years with Vikings: 1990–2001
Accolades: 8-time Pro Bowler, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Cris Carter's sure hands and precise route running made him one of the most reliable receivers in the game. His tenure with the Vikings was marked by numerous records and memorable performances, cementing his status as a Vikings legend.

5. Adrian Peterson

Position: Running Back
Years with Vikings: 2007–2016
Accolades: 7-time Pro Bowler, NFL MVP (2012), Offensive Player of the Year (2012)

Adrian Peterson's blend of power, speed, and elusiveness made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. His MVP season in 2012, where he fell just short of breaking the single-season rushing record, showcased his exceptional talent and determination.

6. John Randle

Position: Defensive Tackle
Years with Vikings: 1990–2000
Accolades: 7-time Pro Bowler, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

John Randle's relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him a nightmare for opposing offenses. His fiery demeanor and exceptional pass-rushing skills earned him a place in the NFL Hall of Fame, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest Vikings defensive players.

7. Paul Krause

Position: Safety
Years with Vikings: 1968–1979
Accolades: 8-time Pro Bowler, NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

Paul Krause's ball-hawking abilities made him one of the most prolific interceptors in NFL history. His knack for finding the football resulted in numerous game-changing plays, ultimately earning him a spot in the NFL Hall of Fame.

8. Carl Eller

Position: Defensive End
Years with Vikings: 1964–1978
Accolades: 6-time Pro Bowler, NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

Carl Eller, a key member of the "Purple People Eaters" defensive line, was known for his exceptional pass-rushing skills and ability to disrupt opposing offenses. His impact on the Vikings' defense was instrumental in the team's success during the 1970s.

9. Jim Marshall

Position: Defensive End
Years with Vikings: 1961–1979
Accolades: 2-time Pro Bowler

Jim Marshall's remarkable durability and consistency set him apart as one of the most reliable and hardworking players in Vikings history. His ironman streak of 270 consecutive games played is a testament to his resilience and dedication to the game.

10. Chris Doleman

Position: Defensive End
Years with Vikings: 1985–1993, 1999
Accolades: 8-time Pro Bowler, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team, NFL Hall of Fame inductee (2012)

Chris Doleman's explosiveness off the edge and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him a formidable force on the Vikings' defensive line. His impact on the team's pass rush and ability to disrupt opposing offenses earned him a well-deserved place in the NFL Hall of Fame.

On the whole, the Minnesota Vikings have been blessed with an abundance of talent throughout their storied history, and the players mentioned above have left an indelible mark on the franchise.

From offensive juggernauts to defensive stalwarts, each of these players contributed in their own unique way to the rich tapestry of Vikings football, etching their names into the annals of NFL history.