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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 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 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 informed 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 incorrect approach in a recreation towards the San Francisco 49ers, celebrating what he thought was a landing however as an alternative 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 develop into an official statistic till 1982, a analysis venture coordinated by Professional Soccer Reference credited him with 130.5, which might tie him for No. 22 in NFL historical past.
“All the 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 an announcement.
“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 observe. His impression on the Vikings was felt lengthy after he left the sphere. Jim will all the time be remembered as an amazing participant and individual. Our hearts are together with his spouse, Susan, and all of Jim’s family members.”