51 Minnesota Vikings Best Players of All Time

The Minnesota Vikings are a professional American football team that has been part of the National Football League since 1960. A proud NFC North division member, the franchise was named after medieval Scandinavian warriors in recognition of its predominantly Scandinavian-American fan base and culture. The team plays all their home games at U.S Bank Stadium located in Minneapolis and is known for having one of the most passionate fan bases across not just NFL but also sports history.

1. Justin Jefferson

Wide receiver

Career

• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2020, 2021)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2020–2022)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2020)
• CFP national champion (2019)
• Second-team All-SEC (2019)

Justin Jefferson was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2020. Jefferson attended LSU and had a successful collegiate career, recording 156 receptions for 2,834 yards and 21 touchdowns.

In his rookie year with the Vikings, he recorded 67 receptions for 924 yards and four touchdowns. Jefferson is one of the most promising young receivers in the NFL and is expected to continue developing into an elite player in future years.

Jefferson was a standout receiver at the University of Georgia, where he led the Bulldogs in receiving yards and touchdowns each of his final two seasons.

Jefferson made an immediate impact in the NFL with the Cardinals, recording 25 receptions for 325 yards and three touchdowns as a rookie. Jefferson has since emerged as one of the top receivers in the league, setting career highs in both catches (320) and yards (4,787).

He is also one of just six players to ever record over 1,000 receiving yards from scrimmage five times throughout their career.

Jefferson’s achievements on Sundays have not gone unnoticed; he was named Second-team All-Pro by the Associated Press this past season and earned Pro Bowl recognition twice – including being selected to play in 2018 Super Bowl LII against Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Nick Foles.

The native of Athens, GA will look to add another title to his resume next year when he leads Arizona into battle once again as part of Super Bowl 53 Champion Philadelphia Eagles.

Also Played For: fantasy playoff, lsu tigers football

2. Fran Tarkenton

Quarterback

Career

• NFL Most Valuable Player (1975)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1975)
• First-team All-Pro (1975)
• Second-team All-Pro (1973)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1967–1970, 1974–1976)
• NFL passing yards leader (1978)
• NFL passing touchdowns leader (1975)
• NFL completion percentage leader (1977)
• Bert Bell Award (1975)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings No. 10 retired
• 2× First-team All-SEC (1959, 1960)
• Orange Bowl champion (1960)

Fran Tarkenton was one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. He won three Super Bowls with the Minnesota Vikings and also led his teams to two NFC championships.

Fran Tarkenton is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, and he also received several other accolades, including being named MVP twice. In 1967, at just 27 years old, Tarkenton became the youngest player ever to start an NFL game.

After retiring from football in 1978, Tarkenton started a career as a sportscaster for various networks around the world. 

Fran Tarkenton's son Craig played quarterback briefly in the NFL and currently plays for the CFL's Calgary Stampeders Fran Tarkenton is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history.

He was a three-time NFL MVP and nine-time Pro Bowler, as well as leading the league in passing yards twice and touchdown passes six times. Fran Tarkenton also had an impressive career both on the field and off it. 

In 1975 he became only the second player ever to win both the NFL Most Valuable Player Award and Offensive Player of the Year honors, while in 1984 he was awarded Bert Bell Award - given annually to college football's top quarterback - for his outstanding contributions at Minnesota.

After retiring from playing professional football, Fran Tarkenton served two terms (1984–1988) as governor of his home state of Minnesota before returning to broadcast sports commentary following a lengthy retirement period himself.

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3. Alan Page

Defensive lineman

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• NFL Most Valuable Player (1971)
• 2× NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1971, 1973)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1969–1971, 1973–1975)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1972, 1976)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1968–1976)
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings No. 88 retired
• 2× National champion (1964, 1966)
• Consensus All-American (1966)

Alan Page was born on August 7, 1945, in Canton, Ohio. He attended the University of Notre Dame where he obtained a B.A. in 1966 and then went to the University of Minnesota Law School where he received his J.D.

in 1969. Page worked as an Assistant United States Attorney from 1970-1972 before being appointed a state district court judge for Ramsey County, Minnesota in 1972 and serving there until 1993 when he became an Associate Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court.

In 2000, Page was named Chief Judge of the Eighth Judicial District which covers portions of Hennepin County. In 2008, he became Chief Judge for all 58 counties across Minnesota On August 31st, 2015 AlanPage retired from his position as an Associate Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court after 36 years of service.

Alan is married to Diane Sims Page and they have four children together Alan Page was a defensive tackle in the NFL for 14 seasons.

He is best known for his time with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he won two Super Bowls (1975 and 1980). The page also played for the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings during his career. In 2018, Alan Page received a Presidential Medal of Freedom award from President Donald Trump.

Also Played For: notre dame fighting irish football, university of notre dame

4. Randy Moss

Wide receiver

Career

• NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1998)
• NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2007)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007)
• 6× Pro Bowl (1998–2000, 2002, 2003, 2007)
• 5× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1998, 2000, 2003, 2007, 2009)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• New England Patriots All-2000s Team
• New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998)
• NCAA I-AA national champion (1996)
• Fred Biletnikoff Award (1997)
• Consensus All-American (1997)
• MAC Most Valuable Player (1997)
• MAC Offensive Player of the Year (1997)
• Orange Bowl champion (1995)

Moss is a wide receiver who played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1998 to 2004 and then with the Oakland Raiders from 2005 to 2006. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998, and after two seasons with the team, he was traded to the New England Patriots in 2007.

Moss enjoyed considerable success at both of his previous teams, amassing over 1,000 yards receiving each season between them. 

In 2010 he joined up with his former Viking teammate Brett Favre with the Minnesota Vikings again, but they were unable to win any games together and Moss retired at the end of that season aged 36 years old.

Moss was one of the most explosive and feared receivers in NFL history. His speed, height, and leaping ability made him one of the toughest coverages to bring down. Moss scored many touchdowns during his stellar career with the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots. 

He was also a three-time winner of the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, as well as a five-time Pro Bowler and six-time All-Pro selection.

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5. Dalvin Cook

Running back

Career

• 2× First-team All-Pro (2019, 2020)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2019–2021)
• Unanimous All-American (2016)
• Second-team All-American (2015)
• 2× First-team All-ACC (2015, 2016)
• Second-team All-ACC (2014)

Cook was a highly touted running back coming out of high school and he made good on that promise by playing college football for Florida State. He is currently with the Minnesota Vikings and has been a key part of their offense over the past two seasons.

Cook is known as one of the most physical runners in the NFL, capable of taking it to defenders at any time. His speed and agility are also assets, making him difficult to bring down even when he's not breaking away from tackles explosively. 

Although Cook hasn't translated his stats into playoff success yet, there's no doubt that he has the potential to be one of the best running backs in league history if he can continue putting up big numbers week in and week out for years to come.

Cook was a two-time first-team All-American and three-time Pro Bowler. He led the FCS in rushing yards and touchdowns as a freshman before becoming one of the top running backs in college football. 

The Minnesota Vikings drafted Cook with their first pick in the 2017 NFL Draft, and he has since become one of the best players in the league.

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6. John Randle

Defensive tackle

Career

• 6× First-team All-Pro (1993–1998)
• 7× Pro Bowl (1993–1998, 2001)
• NFL sacks leader (1997)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings

John Randle spent 10 seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, becoming one of the most beloved players in franchise history. He was a part of two Super Bowl-winning teams and earned three Pro Bowl nods along the way.

After leaving Minnesota, he played for Seattle before retiring in 2003. John is now a television analyst for NFL Network and ESPN Radio, as well as an author and motivational speaker. John Randle was a dominant defensive lineman in the NFL for over a decade.

He won First-team All-Pro honors seven times and made seven Pro Bowl appearances. His 137.5 sacks were the most of any player during his time in the league, and he also led the NFL with nine interceptions from 1997 to 1998. 

Randle is now a member of the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor, having been inducted in 2006 along with fellow Viking Cris Carter.

Randle still holds several records as an all-time great Viking, including being fifth on their all-time sack list and tenth overall in team history with 1,009 total yards from scrimmage gained while playing at Minnesota (not counting playoffs). 

JohnRandle's hard work ethic translated into success both on and off the field - he was named one of the 50 Greatest Vikings by ESPN in 2008 and has since been enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

7. Carl Eller

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1971)
• 5× First-team All-Pro (1968–1971, 1973)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1967, 1972)
• 6× Pro Bowl (1968–1971, 1973, 1974)
• NFL sacks leader (1969)
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• National champion (1960)
• Consensus All-American (1963)
• Rose Bowl champion (1961)

Carl Eller was a defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings from 1964 to 1978. He earned three Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro honors during his time with the team.

After spending one season with the Seattle Seahawks, Eller retired from football in 1979. In 2002, he was inducted into the Vikings Hall of Fame and awarded the franchise's prestigious Spruce Goose Award that same year.

Carl Eller is currently 80 years old and lives in Winston-Salem, North Carolina with his wife Sandy and four children Suzie, Rick, Shane Jr., and Lisa Marie (Suzie being married to former NFL player Shawn Springs). Carl Eller was a nine-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro.

He is most well known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he played from 1968 to 1971 and 1973. After leaving the NFL, Eller coached at several universities before retiring in 2003. In 2006, Eller was inducted into the Rose Bowl Hall of Fame as part of its inaugural class.

Carl Eller is one of only three players ever to be named an Associated Press First Team All-American twice (1963, 1964).

On February 2nd, 2020, Carl passed away at the age of 82 after a long battle with Alzheimer's Disease.

8. Cris Carter

Wide receiver

Career

• Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (1999)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1994, 1999)
• Second-team All-Pro (1995)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1993–2000)
• NFL receptions leader (1994)
• 3× NFL receiving touchdowns leader (1995, 1997, 1999)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings No. 80 retired
• Bart Starr Award (1995)
• Consensus All-American (1986)
• Florida Citrus Bowl champion (1985)
• Cotton Bowl champion (1987)

Carter is a two-time Super Bowl champion and a three-time Pro Bowler. He was the Eagles' first-round draft pick in 1987. Carter played 13 seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, winning two Super Bowls (XXII and XXVI) and earning four Pro Bowl appearances.

In 2000, he joined the Minnesota Vikings where he won another championship in 2004 as well as being named to five consecutive Pro Bowls from 2001 to 2005. In 2002, he signed with the Miami Dolphins.

where he spent six seasons before retiring at age 34 due to injury concerns stemming from concussions sustained during his playing days; however, Carter later returned to play one final season for the New England Patriots in 2007).

Cris Carter was a prolific receiver in the NFL for many years, amassing nearly 6000 yards and 45 touchdowns. His best season came in 1994 when he caught 83 passes for 1128 yards and 10 touchdowns. 

He retired from the NFL after the 2000 season with over 1000 catches, 14000 yards, and 150 TDs in his career. Cris Carter is now a commentator on ESPN's SportsCenter and Fox's Sunday Night Football broadcasts.

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9. Chuck Foreman

Running back

Career

• NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1973)
• UPI NFC Offensive Player of the Year (1976)
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1975, 1976)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1974, 1976, 1977)
• 5× Pro Bowl (1973–1977)
• NFL receptions leader (1975)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team

Chuck Foreman was a running back for the Minnesota Vikings and New England Patriots in the NFL. He is best known for his time with the Patriots, where he won three Super Bowls (1981, 1985, 1996).

Chuck Foreman also played for the Baltimore Colts and Houston Oilers during his career. He is considered one of the most durable players in league history, playing in over 1,000 consecutive games from 1973 to 1999.

In 2003, Chuck Foreman was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Chuck Foreman was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 1973 NFL Draft. He played for six seasons with the Vikings, helping lead them to two Super Bowls (1976 and 1977).

After his playing career ended, he became a radio commentator and then an assistant coach with the Houston Oilers. In 1993, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

10. Kirk Cousins

Quarterback

Career

• 4× Pro Bowl (2016, 2019, 2021, 2022)
• NFL completion percentage leader (2015)
• Bart Starr Award (2022)
• Second-team All-Big Ten (2011)

Cousins started his NFL career with the Washington Redskins. In 2018, Cousins joined the Minnesota Vikings and has been a key player for them this season.

Cousins is one of the most experienced players in the league and has led teams to playoff appearances in each of his four seasons as a starter. He has excellent passing skills and can make plays with both his arm and legs on offense.

His consistency over the past few years makes him an attractive option for any team looking for a quarterback prospect or veteran backup player. Despite being 34 years old, he still possesses some elite qualities that could lead him to success in future seasons if he continues to play at a high level.

Kirk Cousins has had a successful NFL career, having been named to four Pro Bowls and leading the league in completion percentage twice. 

He also holds several records, including most fourth-quarter comebacks and game-winning drives in a single season. Cousins is known for his accurate passing and strong work ethic both on and off the field.

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11. Danielle Hunter

Defensive end

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2018)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2018, 2019)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)

Danielle Hunter is an outside linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings. Danielle Hunter was born on October 29, 1994, in St Catherine, Jamaica. Danielle Hunter played football and track while attending Morton Ranch High School in Katy, Texas.

After playing at LSU from 2012 to 2014, Hunter was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft.

In his rookie season with the Vikings (2015), Hunter recorded 10 sacks and helped lead them to a 9-7 record as they made it to the NFC playoffs where they were defeated by Carolina Panthers 24-14 in overtime play.

Danielle Hunter is one of the most dominant defensive players in the NFL. He has tallied 353 tackles, 66.5 sacks, and five pass deflections over his career so far. Danielle Hunter was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. 

He made his debut with Minnesota during Week 10 of that year against the Detroit Lions and recorded two tackles on defence and a fumble recovery on offence.

The 6’5″, 272-pounder quickly became a fan favourite with Minnesota as he racked up 11½ sacks in 2016 before signing with Oakland Raiders as a free agent in 2017 where he amassed 13 sacks en route to being named Second-team All-Pro for 2018. 

Danielle Hunter will be hoping to continue this good form when he returns to play for Oakland next season after agreeing on terms with them earlier this month - stay tuned for all updates.

Also Played For: defensive end

12. Adrian Peterson

Running back

Career

• NFL Most Valuable Player (2012)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2012)
• NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2007)
• 4× First-team All-Pro (2008, 2009, 2012, 2015)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2007, 2010, 2013)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2007–2010, 2012, 2013, 2015)
• 3× NFL rushing yards leader (2008, 2012, 2015)
• 2× NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2009, 2015)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• 2× Bert Bell Award (2008, 2012)
• Art Rooney Award (2019)
• Unanimous All-American (2004)
• Big 12 Offensive Freshman of the Year (2004)
• Big 12 Offensive Newcomer of the Year (2004)
• 3× first-team All-Big 12 (2004–2006)

Adrian Peterson is a former NFL running back who played for the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals and Washington Redskins. Adrian Peterson was drafted in the first round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings.

He spent seven seasons with them before moving on to join the New Orleans Saints in 2017. Adrian Peterson made his return to football in 2018 with the Washington Redskins where he finished his career after one season. 

Adrian Peterson has been awarded three Super Bowl rings (with two different teams) as well as numerous other awards and accolades during his illustrious career both on and off the field including being named Sports Illustrated’s ‘Sportsman of The Year twice.

Adrian Peterson is a professional American football player who was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2007. 

Peterson has won multiple awards and accolades during his successful NFL career, including 4× First-team All-Pro, 3× Second-team All-Pro, 7x Pro Bowl appearances, and 2× Bert Bell Award. 

In 2019 Adrian Peterson was named the Art Rooney Award winner, becoming only the fourth player to win both the Heisman Trophy and an Academy Award (the most prestigious award in the film).

As well as being one of the greatest running backs in NFL history, Adrian Peterson is also respected for his philanthropy work - he has raised millions for charity through his partnership with The Mission Continues Foundation.

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13. Harrison Smith

Safety

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2017)
• Second-team All-Pro (2018)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2015–2019, 2021)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2012)

Harrison Smith is a safety for the Minnesota Vikings and has been in the NFL since 2012. He attended Notre Dame, where he played football for three seasons before being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2012.

Smith was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2016 and has also been selected to participate in the 2017 and 2018 Pro Bowls. He finished second on the Vikings' all-time list with 567 tackles (521 solos) after joining that club as an Eagle in 2013 and finishing third with 92 passes defended over his career.

In 2018, he registered 85 tackles (65 solos), 2 sacks, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 4 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries, and one quarterback hit through 16 games played all career highs. 

Harrison Smith is a perennial All-Pro and one of the best safeties in the NFL. He was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2015 and has been selected six times overall.

Smith has also made an impact on defense through interceptions, pass deflections, forced fumbles, and fumble recoveries over his career. At 29 years old, Harrison Smith is still playing at an elite level and should continue to do so for many more seasons to come.

Also Played For: madden nfl 19

14. Eric Kendricks

Linebacker

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2019)
• Pro Bowl (2019)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)
• Butkus Award (2014)
• Lott Trophy (2014)
• Second-team All-American (2014)
• Second-team All-Pac-12 (2014)

Kendricks was drafted in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He has played for the Vikings since 2015 and is currently an active player on their roster.

Kendricks attended UCLA where he played football for four years, graduating in 2014 with a degree in business marketing. His athletic career began at Herbert Hoover High School.

where he was captain of his team as a senior and received All-American honors from ESPN college football analyst Kirk Herbstreit, who called him "the best linebacker prospect I've ever seen."

Kendricks has been praised throughout his professional career for his athleticism, leadership abilities, and strong play against both run and pass offenses.

In 2018 he led all linebackers with 98 combined tackles (78 solos), two sacks, three interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), five passes defended, and one fumble recovery while playing 16 games (15 starts). 

As a result of his outstanding performance that season, Kendricks was named to The Associated Press First Team All-Pro squad along with teammates Diggs, Barr and Everson Griffen.

In 2019 he again led all linebackers in total tackles (135) while also recording 8 sacks (+35 yards lost), 2 interceptions (-24 yards gained), 4 forced fumbles (+30 yards recovered), and 1 touchdown return on defense en route to being named Second Team AP All-Pro once again.

Kendricks was selected by the Vikings in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Kendricks has been a starter for Minnesota since being drafted, and he has made an impact on defense both as a run defender and in coverage. Kendricks was named to his first-team All-Pro team in 2019, and he is also a Pro Bowler and PFWA All-Rookie Team nominee this year. 

Kendricks is known for his athleticism, strength, and versatility on defense, which makes him difficult to block even when opponents have clear running lanes open. 

His 9 interceptions are the third-most among all defenders in the league over that time period, a testament to his ball-hawking skills on defense. He will be 33 years old at the end of this season but still shows signs of having great potential as a player going forward.

15. Brian O'Neill

Tackle

Career

• Pro Bowl (2021)
• First-team All-ACC (2017)
• Third-team All-ACC (2016)
• Piesman Trophy Winner (2016)

Brian O'Neill was a standout offensive tackle at Salesianum School in Wilmington, Delaware. He played collegiately for Pittsburgh and was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 with the 62nd overall pick.

In his rookie season, he started all 16 games at right tackle and helped the Vikings make it to the NFC Championship game before losing to the New Orleans Saints 34-29. 

O'Neill is set to return as a starter this year and should be an integral part of anything that Minnesota achieves in the 2020 season.

O'Neill was born in Boston, MA and played college football at Pittsburg State. He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

O’Neill has started 71 games for the Vikings over his three-year career, recording 25 sacks and five forced fumbles. In 2021, he was selected to play in his first Pro Bowl and won a Piesman Trophy as rookie of the year on defense from Pittsburgh State's athletic department.

Brian is currently injured reserve with an ankle injury but is hoping to return this season sometime.

16. Randall McDaniel

Career

• 9× First-team All-Pro (1990–1998)
• 12× Pro Bowl (1989–2000)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1988)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Morris Trophy (1987)
• Rose Bowl champion (1986)
• Freedom Bowl champion (1987)

McDaniel was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1988, where he played for nine seasons. He won two Super Bowls with the team and was a three-time Pro Bowler.

McDaniel retired from the NFL after playing for Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2001. After his retirement, he worked as a television commentator and analyst for various NFL games.

Randall McDaniel was a dominant player in the NFL for over 20 years. He started at least 220 games and played in 9 Pro Bowls. His best season came in 1993 when he had 111 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 sack.

Randall McDaniel is one of just 8 players to have 11 sacks and 50 pass deflections in their career (he accomplished this twice). Randall McDaniel is also notable for his work as a team captain during his time with the Vikings and Baltimore Ravens respectively.

In 2018, Randall McDaniel was elected into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor as part of their 40th anniversary celebration season honoring all Viking greats from that era including Randy Moss, Cris Carter, Barry Sanders, etc.

Also Played For: arizona state sun devils football

17. Matt Birk

Center

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XLVII)
• Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award (2011)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2000, 2003)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2000, 2001, 2003, 2004, 2006, 2007)
• 50 Greatest Vikings

Matt Birk started his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings in 1998. He played for the Baltimore Ravens from 2009-2012 and was an important part of their offensive line during that time.

Matt Birk is a four-time Pro Bowler and has been named to three All-Pro teams, including two First Team selections. He retired after the 2012 season but continues to work as an analyst on NFL Network's coverage of games.

Matt Birk was a 6-time Pro Bowler and 2-time Second Team All-Pro. He played 210 games in the NFL, starting 187 of them. Birk is fifth all-time in fumble recoveries with 5 and was also an excellent blocker for Joe Flacco during his tenure as Baltimore Ravens quarterback from 2008 to 2012.

In 2011, Matt Birk became the first player ever to be named Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year Award recipient following his Super Bowl XLVI victory over the New York Giants with Chicago Bears teammate Brian Urlacher.

Served as one of the two vice presidents on the selection committee that voted on behalf of players nationwide After retiring from football in 2013, Matt Birk entered into coaching where he currently serves as offensive line coach for Harvard University's football program.

18. Brett Favre

Quarterback

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XXXI)
• 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (1995–1997)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1995)
• 2× UPI NFC Offensive Player of the Year (1995, 1996)
• 3× First-team All-Pro (1995–1997)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2007)
• 11× Pro Bowl (1992, 1993, 1995–1997, 2001–2003, 2007–2009)
• 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1995–1997, 2003)
• 2× NFL passing yards leader (1995, 1998)
• NFL completion percentage leader (1998)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
• Sports Illustrated Sportsman of the Year (2007)
• 2× Bert Bell Award (1995, 1996)
• Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
• Green Bay Packers No. 4 retired
• Southern Miss Golden Eagles No. 4 retired

Favre is a three-time NFL MVP and two-time Super Bowl champion. Favre was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1991, but he never played for them because he was traded to the Green Bay Packers before the season started.

In 1992, Favre led the Packers to their first-ever Super Bowl victory over the Buffalo Bills. He was also named MVP of that game. The following year, 1993, Favre helped lead Green Bay to another Super Bowl win over Miami Dolphins and again became MVP of that game.

In 2007, after leaving Green Bay as one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history with 168 touchdown passes and just 67 interceptions, Favre signed with the New York Jets where he retired at age 38 after being released late in the 2008season. 

Favre is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, leading his team to a Super Bowl victory in 2009.

Favre also won three MVP Awards and eleven Pro Bowl appearances during his career with the Vikings. He retired after the 2010 season but will be forever remembered for his time with Minnesota.

19. Jim Marshall

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1964, 1968, 1969)
• 2× Pro Bowl (1968, 1969)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings No. 70 retired
• National champion (1957)
• Rose Bowl champion (1957)

Marshall was a defensive end in the NFL and AFL. He played for the Cleveland Browns and Saskatchewan Roughriders before joining the Minnesota Vikings. Marshall is most notable for his time with the Vikings, where he won two Super Bowls (1969 and 1974).

After retiring from football, Marshall became an analyst for ABC News. Jim Marshall passed away on December 30, 2017, at age 85 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease Marshall was a 3-time Second Team All-Pro and 2x Pro Bowler with the Vikings. 

He played in 270 consecutive games, setting an NFL record that still stands today. Marshall also holds NFL records for sacks (1305) and fumble recoveries (30). 

After retiring as a player, Marshall served as the team's director of security from 1982 to 1994 before passing away at the age of 72 in 2006.

20. Paul Krause

Career

• 3× First-team All-Pro (1964, 1965, 1975)
• 4× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1969, 1971, 1972)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1969, 1971–1975)
• NFL interceptions leader (1964)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Washington Commanders 90 Greatest

Krause was a safety for several NFL teams throughout his career. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1964 and played for them from 1964 to 1967.

Krause then played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1968 to 1979. He won two Super Bowls with the Vikings, in 1969 and 1974, as well as four other championships during his time in the league.

In 1980, Krause retired after playing 14 seasons of professional football and later served as an assistant coach with both the Redskins and Vikings organizations. 

Paul Krause was one of the greatest defensive backs in NFL history and is a member of both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor.

He was an eight-time Pro Bowler, four-time Second Team All-Pro, and led the league in interceptions twice during his career. 

Krause also holds several Vikings team records including most interception returns for touchdowns (5) and total yards from intercepted passes (1,185). 

In 1996, he was elected to the NFL's 50 Greatest Players list at age 43 making him one of only two players ever to be voted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame and the NFL's all-century team simultaneously.

Also Played For: washington redskins best defensive players

21. Jared Allen

Defensive end

Career

• 4× First-team All-Pro (2007–2009, 2011)
• 5× Pro Bowl (2007–2009, 2011, 2012)
• 2× NFL sacks leader (2007, 2011)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2004)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Buck Buchanan Award (2003)
• Idaho State Bengals No. 41 retired

Jared Allen is a defensive end who played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Minnesota Vikings, Chicago Bears and Carolina Panthers in his career. He was born on April 3, 1982, in Dallas, Texas and attended high school at Los Gatos before going to Idaho State.

Allen made an impact with the Chiefs from 2004-2007 before joining the Vikings where he stayed until 2013. In 2014 Allen signed with the Carolina Panthers but only lasted one season there before retiring in 2015 due to injury Jared Allen is a four-time first-team All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler with 136 sacks in his career.

He was named NFL sacks leader in 2007 and 2011, and set the record for most safeties in a season with 2 in 2009. Allen also has two records: Most seasons leading the league in sacks (2) and most tackles by an interior lineman (643). 

The Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor inducted him into their Hall of Fame Class of 2018, making him one of only seven players enshrined as part of the organization’s shrine to all things Viking.

Also Played For: chicago bears best defensive players

22. Ron Yary

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• 6× First-team All-Pro (1971–1976)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1970, 1977)
• 7× Pro Bowl (1971–1977)
• NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• 2× Consensus All-American (1966, 1967)
• Outland Trophy (1967)
• National champion (1967)
• Rose Bowl (1967)

Ron Yary was a standout offensive tackle at USC and became the Vikings' first-round pick in the 1968 NFL Draft. He played for Minnesota from 1968 to 1981, winning three Super Bowls with the team.

After leaving the Vikings, Yary spent time with the Rams before retiring in 1982. He is now an ESPN commentator and author. Ron Yary is considered one of the best offensive tackles ever to play in the NFL and he is also a two-time Pro Bowler (1973, 1978).

Ron Yary was an All-Pro linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings during the 1970s. He is a member of the Vikings Ring of Honor and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. Yary also won two Super Bowls with the Vikings (1974, 1976) and was named MVP both times.

In 1967, he became college football's first unanimous National Champion when his team defeated Notre Dame 27–0 in the Rose Bowl Game. 

After retiring from professional football, Yary served as athletic director at Southern Illinois University Carbondale before retiring again in 2002 due to health concerns related to a diabetes mellitus diagnosis.

Also Played For: usc trojans football

23. Ahmad Rashad

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (1979)
• 4× Pro Bowl (1978–1981)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• First-team All-American (1971)
• Oregon Sports Hall of Fame

Ahmad Rashad played wide receiver in the NFL for 12 seasons from 1972 to 1983. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and led the league in receiving yards twice (1977, 1978).

Rashad is also one of only two players in NFL history with over 10,000 yards both as a punt returner and receiver (the other being Jerry Rice). In 1982, he was traded to the Minnesota Vikings where he finished his career playing until 1987.

After retiring from football, Ahmad Rashad worked as an analyst on Fox Sports North's "SportsCenter" program from 1990 to 2001 before retiring again due to health concerns related to diabetes mellitus. 

He currently resides in Oregon with his wife Karen and their four children Johnna, Jamilah, Ibrahim, and Ismaila. (source) Ahmad Rashad was born on October 1, 1954, in Newark, New Jersey.

After playing college football at the University of Connecticut, Ahmad Rashad was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1974. He played for the Eagles for seven seasons before signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 1980. 

With Minnesota, he led the team to four consecutive Pro Bowl appearances and won four First-team All-Pro awards during his time there. 

Ahmad Rashad retired from professional football following the 1991 season and has since worked as an analyst on NFL broadcasts and served as a color commentator for several NCAA Tournament games throughout his career.

24. Keith Millard

Defensive tackle

Career

• 1989 NFL Defensive Player of the Year
• 1989 UPI NFC Player of the Year
• 2× First-team All-Pro (1988, 1989)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1986, 1987)
• 2× Pro Bowl (1988, 1989)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Second-team All-Time USFL team
• Morris Trophy (1983)

Keith Millard was a defensive tackle who played in the NFL for ten seasons. He started his career with the Jacksonville Bulls and then spent time with the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, and Green Bay Packers.

Keith Millard is best remembered for playing for the Philadelphia Eagles from 1993 to 1995. There he helped lead them to two Super Bowl appearances (1994 and 1996) as well as an NFC Championship (1993). 

After leaving the NFL, Keith Millard has remained active in professional football by coaching at various levels of competition.

In 2008 he became head coach of Division II Whitman College in Walla Walla Washington where he remains currently in that position. Keith Millard is an assistant coach in the NFL with Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 

He started his coaching career as a defensive line coach for the Oakland Raiders and Denver Broncos before moving on to become an assistant defensive coordinator with the Tennessee Titans in 2011.

Keith Millard has also coached at UCLA, San Francisco Demons, and Los Angeles Dragons where he was most successful as head coach of Dragons from 2000-2002 leading them to 2 straight playoff appearances including their first professional championship game appearance in 2001. 

Arizona Rattler's 3-0 victory After leaving Dragon's 2002 season ended abruptly when he was fired after just one winless campaign, unfortunately for fans of this talented team that included Shaun Alexander. Tedy Bruschi and Rod Smith among others. 

Keith Millard bounced back quickly however taking over the defense at UCLA during the 2004 season getting the Bruins bowl eligible for only 1st time since 1992 but they lost 44–34 vs Texas A&M in what would be Pete Carroll's debut as Head Coach at USC.

25. Patrick Peterson

Cornerback

Career

• 2× First-team All-Pro (2013, 2015)
• 8× Pro Bowl (2011–2018)
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
• SEC Special Teams Player of the Year (2010)
• Chuck Bednarik Award (2010)
• Jim Thorpe Award (2010)
• Jack Tatum Trophy (2010)
• Unanimous first-team All-American (2010)
• Second-team All-American (2009)
• First-team All-SEC (2010)
• Second-team All-SEC (2009)

Patrick Peterson was born in Pompano Beach, Florida on July 11th, 1990. He attended high school at Blanche Ely and played college football for LSU before being drafted by the Arizona Cardinals in 2011.

Patrick has spent his entire career with Minnesota Vikings, where he is currently an active player. Patrick is a two-time Pro Bowler and three-time All-Pro selection who has led the NFL in interceptions twice (2015 & 2017).

Patrick Peterson is a five-time Pro Bowler and two-time First Team All-Pro. He started his career with the Cardinals before being traded to the Saints in 2015. In 2018, he signed with the 49ers and helped lead them to their first Super Bowl win since 1988.

Patrick is known for his exceptional defensive skills as a cornerback but also has experience playing safety and running back on special teams units.

Also Played For: madden nfl 15, madden nfl 20

26. Antoine Winfield Sr.

Cornerback

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2008)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2008–2010)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• All Metrodome Team (2013)
• Consensus All-American (1998)
• Jim Thorpe Award (1998)
• Jack Tatum Trophy (1998)

Antoine Winfield Sr. was born on June 24th, 1977 in Akron, Ohio. He attended Garfield High School and played college football at Ohio State before being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 1999.

Antoine spent six seasons with the Bills before signing with the Minnesota Vikings in 2004 where he spent eight seasons until 2012 when he signed with the Seattle Seahawks. 

In 2013, Antoine retired from professional football after spending one season as a member of their practice squad for Seattle Sounders FC 2 in MLS.

Antoine Winfield Sr. was an NFL all-star in 1998 and won the Jim Thorpe Award that same year. He played for the Vikings from 1997 to 2010, registering 1,054 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 14 forced fumbles, 11 fumble recoveries, and 27 interceptions during his career. 

Antoine Winfield Sr.'s son Antoine Jr., also an NFL player, was drafted by Minnesota in 2009 and played for them until 2017 when he signed with the Oakland Raiders as a free agent.

In 2018 Antoine Jr., announced his retirement from professional football after 9 seasons playing both cornerback and safety for various teams around the league including Miami Dolphins (2012), Indianapolis Colts (2013-2015), and Washington Redskins (2016). 

Whilst not having had quite such illustrious careers as his father did professionally at some point or another each of their sons has enjoyed success at some level of American football; making it one successful family.

27. Fred Cox

Placekicker

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• Pro Bowl (1970)
• 2× NFL scoring leader (1969, 1970)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team

Fred Cox was a kicker in the NFL for 14 seasons, playing for the Pittsburgh Steelers and Minnesota Vikings. Cox is best known for his 61-yard field goal against the Oakland Raiders that won Super Bowl IX.

He also made two other game-winning kicks during his career - one from 54 yards and another from 58 yards out - both against the Cleveland Browns. After retiring as a player, Cox became an assistant coach with the Steelers and served in that position until 2000.

Fred Cox passed away on November 20, 2019, at the age of 80 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Fred Cox played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1963 to 1977. 

He was a two-time NFL scoring leader and won a championship in 1969. After retiring from football, Cox served as the team's general manager from 1978 to 1984.

In 1985, he became the president and chief executive of Miller Brewing Co., where he remained until his retirement in 2002. Fred Cox is a member of several Halls of Fame, including those for both baseball and football, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

Also Played For: pittsburgh panthers football, university of pittsburgh football

28. Warren Moon

Quarterback

Career

• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1990)
• NFL Man of the Year (1989)
• Second-team All-Pro (1990)
• 9× Pro Bowl (1988–1995, 1997)
• 2× NFL passing yards leader (1990, 1991)
• NFL passing touchdowns leader (1990)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1984)
• Titans/Oilers Ring of Honor
• Tennessee Titans No. 1 retired
• Bart Starr Award (1994)
• Pac-8 Co-Player of the Year (1977)
• Rose Bowl MVP (1978)
• Texas Sports Hall of Fame

Warren Moon was a three-time Pro Bowler and led the Houston Oilers to two Super Bowls. He retired in 1993 after playing for the Edmonton Eskimos, Houston Oilers, Seattle Seahawks, and Minnesota Vikings.

In 2006 he was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. Moon is currently an ESPN analyst and co-host of "NFL Countdown". 

He resides in suburban Los Angeles with his wife Laurie and their four children: sons Kyle (born 1990) and Keegan (born 1992), daughter Kaylee (born 1994), and son Tristan (born 1998).

Warren Moon was a quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks in the NFL. He won two Super Bowls with each team and was twice named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

 Moon also played in both the Canadian Football League and NCAA Division I college football, winning several awards along the way.

Also Played For: washington huskies football, tecmo super bowl

29. Christian Darrisaw

Tackle

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (2021–present)

Christian Darrisaw was born on June 2, 1999, in Petersburg, Virginia. He attended Riverdale Baptist High School before playing college football at Virginia Tech from 2018 to 2020.

In 2021, Christian Darrisaw was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the NFL Draft and he started playing for them from Week 1 of that season onwards. 

Christian Darrisaw is a versatile defensive back who has played both cornerback and safety for the Minnesota Vikings.

He was a first-team All-ACC selection in 2020 and helped lead his team to an ACC championship game appearance. 

Christian Darrisaw has started all 20 of his NFL games so far, recording 18 total tackles and one interception. Christian Darrisaw's versatility on defense makes him an important part of the Viking’s roster moving forward.

Also Played For: virginia tech

30. Chris Doleman

Career

• 3× First-team All-Pro (1987, 1989, 1992)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1990, 1993)
• 8× Pro Bowl (1987–1990, 1992, 1993, 1995, 1997)
• NFL sacks leader (1989)
• NFL forced fumbles leader (1987)
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1985)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Sugar Bowl champion (1981)

Chris Doleman was a dominant defensive end in the NFL for over 15 years. He won two Super Bowls with the Minnesota Vikings and is regarded as one of the greatest players in league history.

Doleman suffered from multiple injuries throughout his career but still managed to be an impact player on both sides of the ball. He will forever be remembered for his incredible play during the 1990 NFC Championship Game against Atlanta Falcons.

Chris Doleman passed away due to complications from head injuries sustained in a car accident just days after he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. 

His death sent shockwaves through both professional football and sports culture as a whole Chris Doleman was a dominant defensive player in the NFL for many years.

He was named to eight Pro Bowls and led the league in sacks three times. Chris Doleman also had a significant impact on the Minnesota Vikings, helping them win two Super Bowls. In his career, he recorded 150.5 sacks which is still a record for an interior defender in NFL history.

31. Adam Thielen

Wide receiver

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2017)
• 2× Pro Bowl (2017, 2018)

Adam Thielen is a talented wide receiver for the Minnesota Vikings. He was undrafted in 2013 but has since become one of the team's most reliable players.

Thielen started his career at Minnesota State but wasn't drafted until 2013. After playing in the NFL Europa and Canadian leagues, he made it to the NFL with the Vikings in 2017.

Thielen is known for his strong hands and ability to make tough catches over defenders' heads. He has totaled 1,477 yards and eight touchdowns on 178 receptions in his four-year career with Minnesota so far.

Despite being relatively unknown outside of football circles, Adam Thielen is considered one of the best receivers in the league by many fans and analysts alike Adam Thielen is one of the most talented receivers in the NFL and has been a huge part of Minnesota’s success over the past few seasons.

He was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2017 and has continued to be one of the best players on his team this season. Thielen is known for his speed, quickness, and ability to catch nearly anything that comes his way. His combination of size (6-foot-3) and athleticism makes him a difficult opponent for any cornerback or safety to cover.

Thielen played college football at Division II Gustavus Adolphus College before being drafted by the Vikings in 2016. He quickly made an impact with Minnesota, becoming one of their main offensive weapons early on in his career. 

In addition to playing receiver, Thielen also spends time as a punt returner and kickoff returns specialist for the Vikings – adding another dimension to his game that allows him to make even more impacts on Sundays.

With six weeks remaining in the regular season, Adam Thielen currently holds several NFL records including the most consecutive 100-yard receiving games (8), most receptions in a single season (112), and second all-time in receiving yards behind only Jerry Rice (15,279).

32. Mick Tingelhoff

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• 5× First-team All-Pro (1964–1966, 1968, 1969)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (1967, 1970)
• 6× Pro Bowl (1964–1969)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings No. 53 retired

Tingelhoff was a center for the Minnesota Vikings from 1962 to 1978. Tingelhoff is considered one of the best centers in NFL history and helped lead the Vikings to six division titles and two Super Bowl appearances.

Tingelhoff passed away on September 11, 2021, after a long battle with health issues. His funeral was attended by many of his former NFL colleagues and friends. Mick Tingelhoff was a dominant offensive lineman in the NFL for over 20 years, playing on five championship teams with the Minnesota Vikings.

He is also known for his durability and consistency, starting every game he played in during that time period and never missing more than four games in a season. 

In 1999, Mick Tingelhoff was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as part of the Vikings 25th Anniversary Team. His number 53 has been retired by the Vikings and he currently serves as their team historian/ambassador.

Mick Tingelhoff is an excellent speaker who often shares his story wisdom at events around the state of Minnesota.

33. Za'Darius Smith

Outside linebacker

Career

• Baltimore Ravens (2015–2018)
• Green Bay Packers (2019–2021)
• Minnesota Vikings (2022–present)

Za'Darius Smith was a standout linebacker for the Kentucky Wildcats from 2013-2014. In his final season, he recorded 126 tackles, 10 sacks, and 2 interceptions.

The Minnesota Vikings selected Smith in the fourth round of the 2015 NFL draft and he has since started all 16 games for them each year. He is a versatile defender who can play both inside and outside linebacker positions.

Smith's athleticism and motor have allowed him to be one of the most productive linebackers in the league over recent seasons. His impact on defense has been criticized as the Vikings have made playoff appearances each year he has been with them.

Outside of football, Smith is an avid painter who often posts images of his work online. He also contributes to various social media platforms regularly to share news about sports or other topics relevant to young adults Za'Darius Smith is a talented and hard-hitting defensive end for the Baltimore Ravens.

He has been very productive in his career, totaling 256 tackles, 54 sacks, 11 pass deflections, and 8 fumble recoveries. Za'Darius Smith was drafted by the Packers in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft after playing college football at Vanderbilt. 

It will be interesting to see how he fares in Green Bay's system; if he can develop into a consistent starter then he could have a long and successful career as a Packer.

In 2020, Za'Darius Smith was a second-team All-Pro after recording 10 sacks and 26 ½ pressures on defense (fifth-most among all defenders). He also showed off his dynamic ability as an edge rusher with 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery during that season. 

With Aaron Rodgers under center for the Green Bay Packers, expect Smith to continue putting up impressive numbers – especially considering his contract situation which allows him to become an unrestricted free agent following the 2021 season.

34. Gary Zimmerman

Career

• Super Bowl champion (XXXII)
• 5× First-team All-Pro (1987–1989, 1992, 1996)
• 3× Second-team All-Pro (1986, 1993, 1995)
• 7× Pro Bowl (1987–1989, 1992, 1994–1996)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Denver Broncos Ring of Fame
• Morris Trophy (1983)

Zimmerman was a five-time first-team All-Pro offensive tackle and Super Bowl champion with the Los Angeles Express in 1984. He played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1986 to 1992, then joined Denver Broncos in 1993.

Zimmerman helped lead Denver to two AFC Championship games (1997 and 1998) and one Super Bowl victory (1998). After nine seasons with the Broncos, he retired at age 36 in 2002. Gary Zimmerman was a three-time second-team All-Pro and seven-time Pro Bowl selection in the NFL.

He played for the Vikings from 1987 to 1996, compiling a record of 184 games played and 169 starts. Zimmerman was also named an All-USFL first-team player twice (1984, 1985) and finished his career with 44 fumble recoveries. 

After retiring as a player he became Minnesota's defensive coordinator from 1997 to 2004 before joining the Denver Broncos' staff as their linebackers coach in the 2005 season finale, where they won Super Bowl XXXII against New England Patriots 34–28.

35. Tyler Conklin

Tight end

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (2018–2021)
• New York Jets (2022–present)

Tyler Conklin was drafted by the New York Jets in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He played college football at Central Michigan and Northwood, where he caught 116 passes for 1,691 yards and 15 touchdowns in his three seasons with the CMU Chippewas.

As a rookie tight end for the Jets in 2018, Tyler Conklin had six catches for 39 yards and one touchdown on nine targets through eight games.

In 2019, Tyler Conklin has appeared in all 16 games for New York (six starts) recording 49 receptions for 522 yards and two touchdowns on 73 targets - good enough to lead all Jets TEs in both categories.

Tyler Conklin was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He played college football at Central Michigan University. In his rookie season, he caught 51 passes for 601 yards and 5 touchdowns. 

In 2019, he had a career-high 94 receptions for 1,233 yards and 8 touchdowns. Tyler Conklin is an electrifying receiver who can make big plays downfield with his speed and elusiveness on the field; he should be a key part of any offense that employs him going forward.

36. Joey Browner

Career

• 3× First-team All-Pro (1987, 1988, 1990)
• Second-team All-Pro (1989)
• 6× Pro Bowl (1985–1990)
• NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings All-Mall of America Field Team

Browner was a safety for the Minnesota Vikings from 1983 to 1991. He was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Vikings and also played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1992.

Browner is best known for his play on defense, where he recorded over 1,000 tackles during his career. After retiring from football, Browner worked as an analyst with NFL Network from 2002 to 2007 before taking up a coaching role at USC in 2008.

Browner was one of the best cornerbacks in NFL history and helped lead the Vikings to a pair of Super Bowl appearances. Browner's 37 interceptions are second most all-time and his 465 INT yards rank sixth all-time. 

He also has six Pro Bowl appearances, three First-Team All-Pro selections, two Second-Team All-Pro nods and two NFC Championship Game berths on his resume.

In 1984, Browner was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons but he never played for them because they traded him to the Vikings before their first game together (which ended up being Joe Montana's last game as a starting quarterback). 

After spending nine seasons with Minnesota, he signed with Seattle Seahawks in 1997 where he spent four more years before retiring at 33 years old. Browner is now an analyst for ESPN and Fox Sports 1 covering NFL games.

Also Played For: 1983 nfl draft

37. Matt Blair

Career

• First-team All-Pro (1980)
• Second-team All-Pro (1981)
• 6× Pro Bowl (1977–1982)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (1974)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team
• Second-team All-American (1972)

Matt Blair was a linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings from 1974-1985. He had 121 total tackles and 3 sacks in his career. Matt Blair died on October 22, 2020, at the age of 70 after a long battle with cancer.

Matt Blair was a star defensive back in the NFL for many years. He was selected to six Pro Bowls and also earned Second-team All-Pro honors twice. Blair helped lead the Minnesota Vikings to two Super Bowl appearances, winning one title in 1977.

After retiring from the NFL, he went on to have a successful career as a coach and manager with various teams around the league.

38. Stefon Diggs

Wide receiver

Career

• First-team All-Pro (2020)
• 3× Pro Bowl (2020–2022)
• NFL receptions leader (2020)
• NFL receiving yards leader (2020)
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2015)
• Second-team All-Big Ten (2014)

Stefon Diggs was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2015 and played for them until 2019. He then signed with the Buffalo Bills in 2020 and has been there ever since.

Stefon Diggs is a wide receiver and is one of the top players in the league when it comes to catching passes. He has also been named to several All-Pro teams as well as being awarded First-team All-Pro status in 2020.

Stefon Diggs was born on November 29, 1993, which makes him just 29 years old at this time. This gives him plenty of experience both on the field and behind it, making him an invaluable part of any team he plays for. 

Stefon Diggs attended Our Lady of Good Counsel high school before going on to play college football at Maryland where he became one of their most popular players during his two seasons there (2012–2014).

Stefon Diggs was drafted in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He played college football at Maryland where he made three Pro Bowls and was a Second-team All-American as a junior in 2013. In his rookie season, Stefon Diggs led all NFL receivers with 96 receptions for 1,277 yards and six touchdowns. 

As a sophomore in 2014, Stefon Diggs helped lead the Minnesota Vikings to their first playoff appearance since 2008 while recording 66 receptions for 985 yards and five touchdowns.

In 2016, Stefon Diggs led all NFL receivers with 101 catches for 1,297 yards and nine touchdowns before being named First Team All-Pro and earning his second Pro Bowl invitation later that year.

 In 2018, Stefon Diggs became just the fifth player in history to record over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first four seasons when he amassed 112 catches for 1,401 yards and eight touchdowns. 

Stefon Diggs is an explosive receiver who can stretch defenses deep into their territory on short passes or go long downfield routes to make big plays， making him one of the most dangerous players in the league today.

39. Bashaud Breeland

Cornerback

Career

• Washington Redskins (2014–2017)
• Green Bay Packers (2018)
• Kansas City Chiefs (2019–2020)
• Minnesota Vikings (2021)
• Arizona Cardinals (2021)*

Bashaud Breeland was drafted in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins. He played two seasons with Washington before being traded to Green Bay in 2018.

In 2019, he signed with the Kansas City Chiefs and has started all 16 games this season. Bashaud is a four-time Pro Bowl selection and was named to the All-Pro Team in 2018. Bashaud Breeland is a cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals.

He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Bashaud Breeland played college football at Clemson University where he won two national championships (2011 and 2013). 

Bashaud Breeland has been named to three Pro Bowls, two first-team All-Pro teams, and was voted as an AP First Team All-American in both 2011 and 2013.

Bashaud Breeland is one of just four players ever to win back-to-back ACC Defensive Player of the Year awards (2013, 2014). 

In 2017, BashaudBreeland made his debut with the Washington Redskins after being traded from Carolina during training camp but did not make an appearance on any game day rosters before being waived on September 2nd. 

On October 17th, BashaudBreeland signed with Arizona who needed help at cornerback following injuries to Patrick Peterson and Justin Bethel earlier in the season.

40. Ben Leber

Linebacker

Career

• San Diego Chargers (2002–2005)
• Minnesota Vikings (2006–2010)
• St. Louis Rams (2011)

Ben Leber was originally a linebacker for the San Diego Chargers, but he transitioned to fullback in 2006. He spent five seasons with the Minnesota Vikings before signing with the Indianapolis Colts in 2011.

Ben Leber has been a mainstay on defense for Indianapolis since joining them and is now one of their longest-serving players. In December 2013, it was announced that Ben Leber would retire at the end of the season due to injuries sustained during practice earlier that year.

Overall, Ben Leber has played in 142 games and recorded 497 tackles over his career - including 12 sacks - making him one of Indy's most successful linebackers ever.

Ben Leber was drafted in the fourth round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the St. Louis Rams. He played college football at Kansas State where he accumulated 496 tackles, 24 sacks, and five interceptions during his time with the Wildcats.

Ben Leber entered his fifth season in 2011 with the Rams and had a solid year leading all rookies in tackles (90). In 2012, Ben Leber suffered an injury that ended his season prematurely after only four games. 

Since leaving St. Louis, Ben has been signed to two different practice squads before landing on Detroit Lions' squad as a member of their active roster for Week 17 of the 2013 NFL Season On March 11th, 2014.

It was announced that Ben would retire from playing professional football due to injuries sustained earlier in his career which prevented him from fulfilling his dream of making it to an NFL Championship game.

41. Brad Johnson

Quarterback

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (1992–1998)
• Washington Redskins (1999–2000)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2001–2004)
• Minnesota Vikings (2005–2006)
• Dallas Cowboys (2007–2008)

Brad Johnson was a quarterback in the NFL for 16 seasons, most notably with the Minnesota Vikings. He played in 4 Pro Bowls and led his team to one playoff appearance.

Brad Johnson was born on September 13th, 1968 in Marietta, Georgia, and attended Owen High School before playing college football at Florida State. After being drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1992, 

He spent four seasons with them before being traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1998 where he remained until 2001 when he signed with the Carolina Panthers.

In 2002, Johnson joined the Atlanta Falcons and finished his career with two years of play for Dallas Cowboys (2004–2005). 

After retiring from professional football, Brad Johnson started working as an analyst for Fox Sports Net and served as a color commentator for their coverage of Super Bowl XLVIII. 

Troy Aikman and Erin Andrews respectively Brad Johnson is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Minnesota Vikings, and Dallas Cowboys.

He won two Super Bowls with the Bucs in 2002 and 2003, and he was also named to two Pro Bowls during his career. 

Johnson finished his career with 166 touchdown passes and 122 interceptions – making him one of the most successful quarterbacks of all time. 

After retiring from playing football, Johnson started working as an analyst on NFL Network – where he continues to work today.

Also Played For: 2000 nfl season, london monarchs

42. Bud Grant

Career

• NFL champion (1969)
• 3× NFC champion (1973, 1974, 1976)
• NFL Coach of the Year (1969)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings (2011)
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team (2000)
• Minnesota Vikings 25th Anniversary Team (1985)

Bud Grant was a highly successful NFL player for over 20 years. He is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he helped lead them to three Super Bowl victories.

Grant was born in Superior, Wisconsin on May 20th, 1927 and played football at Superior Central High School before going on to play college ball at the University of Minnesota. 

After playing two seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, Bud signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 1950 and proceeded to win three league championships (1951–1953) and one Super Bowl title (1978).

In addition, he also made an appearance in four Pro Bowls during his career as well as being named First Team All-Pro twice and Second Team All-Pro once. Outside of football, Bud worked as a coach for several teams including the Oakland Raiders (1973–1974), New England Patriots (1976), and Kansas City Chiefs (1986). 

He retired from coaching following the 1990 season but continued to work closely with the Vikings until his death in 2019 at 95 years old.

Bud Grant was a successful coach in both the NFL and Canadian Football League. Grant led the Blue Bombers to two Grey Cup championships, as well as winning another championship with the Minnesota Vikings.

He has considered one of the most accomplished head coaches in NFL history, ranking seventh all-time in wins and fourth in winning percentage (.611). 

After retiring from coaching, Grant served as an executive for both the Vikings and Jets before becoming a consultant for the league office.

43. Harrison Phillips

Career

• Buffalo Bills (2018–2021)
• Minnesota Vikings (2022–present)

Harrison Phillips was born on January 25, 1996, in Omaha, Nebraska. He attended Millard West High School and played defensive end for the Vikings' junior varsity team before transferring to Stanford where he played four seasons of college football.

In 2018, Phillips was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the NFL Draft and made his debut during their season opener against Green Bay Packers. Harrison is married to Morgan Fairchild and they have one son together named Paxson Hartley Fairchild (born May 12th, 2019).

Harrison is a devout Christian and has spoken about how faith has helped him through some difficult times in his career including when he had surgery to repair a torn meniscus injury last year which kept him out for eight games; 

He also credits prayer with helping him rebound from that tough time as well as his overall preparation leading up to each game.

Outside of football, Harrison enjoys spending time with family, playing video games, and reading books; he also loves going golfing. 

Harrison Phillips had a strong season for the Buffaloes in 2017, recording 111 tackles and 3 sacks. The 22-year-old is coming off an All-Pac 12 First Team selection and should be a key player on Buffalo's defensive line in 2018.

With Everson Griffen likely moving on to the Vikings this offseason, Phillips will have to step up and lead the unit by example. While his stats won't wow you at first glance, Harrison Phillips consistently makes plays that help his team win - making him one of the most valuable players in all of football. 

Look for him to continue developing into one of the top defenders in the NFL over time - he has everything it takes to achieve great things.

44. Kevin Williams

Defensive tackle

Career

• 5× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2006–2009)
• 6× Pro Bowl (2004, 2006–2010)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2003)
• Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings All-Mall of America Field Team

Kevin Williams was a dominant defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings over a 10-year career. He recorded 191 tackles, 14 sacks, and two interceptions in his time with the team.

After playing three seasons with the Seahawks, Williams signed

 with the Saints in 2015 where he played until injuries forced him to retire in 2016. 'A native of Arkansas, Williams is also known for his charity work - most notably through his involvement with The Coalition Against Homelessness (CAH).

CAH provides transitional housing and resources to homeless individuals across Minnesota and Wisconsin. 

In addition to football, Kevin enjoys spending time outdoors fishing or hunting - something that he has been doing since childhood thanks to family traditions of hunting and fishing together as a unit.

Despite being retired from professional football, Kevin remains heavily involved in charitable work both on an individual level and through his involvement with CAH as well as other organizations that serve those who are struggling financially such as Feeding America. 

Kevin Williams was a five-time first-team all-pro and six-time Pro Bowl selection in the NFL.

Kevin Williams is one of only two players to be named an All-Decade Team by both the Associated Press and Football Writers Association of America, joining Jerry Rice. He was also voted into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor in 2012. 

In 2013, he was inducted into the Professional Football Researchers Association Hall of Fame as well as being selected to play in the PFRA Thanksgiving Day Classic game against their counterparts. 

The National Football League Alumni Game Foundation at RFK Stadium on November 24th, 2013 where his teammates were included. 

Warren Moon and Cris Carter amongst others Williams' career ended with him being placed on injured reserve with a torn Achilles tendon following Sunday's win over Green Bay Packers.

Also Played For: oklahoma state university

45. Steve Hutchinson

Guard

Career

• 5× First-team All-Pro (2003, 2005, 2007–2009)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2004, 2006)
• 7× Pro Bowl (2003–2009)
• NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
• PFWA All-Rookie Team (2001)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• National champion (1997)
• Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year (2000)
• Unanimous All-American (2000)
• Rose Bowl champion (1997)
• Orange Bowl champion (1999)
• 2× Florida Citrus Bowl champion (1998, 2000)

Hutchinson was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in 2001 but did not play a single game for them. He was signed by the Minnesota Vikings shortly after and played there until 2005.

Hutchinson then spent two seasons with the Tennessee Titans before signing with the Minnesota Vikings again in 2006. 

He would stay with them until 2011. Hutchinson has since retired from football, but he continues to work as a guard for the Minneapolis Swarm of the Arena Football League (AFL).

Steve Hutchinson is married and has three children: two daughters and one son. Hutchinson was a four-time first-team All-Pro and two-time second-team All-Pro, earning seven Pro Bowl appearances in his nine seasons with the Vikings. 

Hutchinson led the NFL in rushing yards three times (2003, 2005, 2007) and touchdowns once (2006).

He also finished seventh in receptions during his career with 184 catches for 2,527 yards and 20 touchdowns. 

Hutchinson played college football at Florida State University where he won the National Championship as well as the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year award in 2000. 

After retiring from professional football following the 2009 season Hutchinson became an analyst on ESPN's Monday Night Football broadcasts before joining Fox Sports North as an assistant coach for their Minnesota Vikings coverage starting in 2018.

46. Robert Smith

Career

• Second-team All-Pro (2000)
• 2× Pro Bowl (1998, 2000)
• 50 Greatest Vikings
• Minnesota Vikings 40th Anniversary Team
• Big Ten Freshman of the Year (1990)

Robert Smith was a running back for the Minnesota Vikings from 1993 to 2000. He played college football at Ohio State and was drafted in the first round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Vikings.

Smith spent six seasons with Minnesota before being traded to Baltimore in 2001. In 2002, he signed with Philadelphia as a free agent and finished his career with them in 2004. Robert Smith has been inducted into both the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2011) and the College Football Hall of Fame (2012).

Robert Smith is a two-time Pro Bowler and one of the most accomplished Vikings players of all time. He was drafted in the second round (38th overall) by Minnesota in 1990 and played for the team until 2001.

During his career, Smith rushed for 6,818 yards on 477 carries with 32 touchdowns. He also caught 279 passes for 2,578 yards and 12 touchdowns during his NFL career.

After retiring from football, Robert Smith became an analyst on ESPN's Sunday Night Football coverage and currently works as a color commentator for games televised by Fox Sports North In 2006 he was inducted into the Vikings' Hall of Fame.

47. Kyle Rudolph

Tight end

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (2011–2020)
• New York Giants (2021)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2022–present)

Kyle Rudolph is a tight end for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He was drafted by the team in 2011 and has since played in over 100 games.

Kyle Rudolph is known for his speed, which he uses to catch passes from quarterback Jameis Winston.

In 2013, Kyle Rudolph was named to the Pro Bowl as an alternate player after playing well that season. 

After spending two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, Kyle re-signed with Tampa Bay in 2017 Kyle Rudolph is a talented tight end who has had success in the NFL.

He was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2011 and quickly became one of their top players. In 2017, he led all tight ends with 91 receptions for 1,2400 yards and 11 touchdowns. 

The Buccaneers signed him to a contract extension this offseason and believe that he will continue his success in Tampa Bay moving forward.

Also Played For: 2011 nfl draft

48. Greg Joseph

Placekicker

Career

• Miami Dolphins (2018)*
• Cleveland Browns (2018)
• Carolina Panthers (2019)*
• Tennessee Titans (2019)
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020)
• Minnesota Vikings (2021–present)

Greg Joseph is a kicker for the Minnesota Vikings. He was undrafted in 2018 but signed with the Cleveland Browns. 

Joseph made his NFL debut in 2018 and has been with the Vikings since then, making six field goals out of nine attempts this season.

In high school, he played at Donna Klein Jewish Academy before transferring to American Heritage School where he won two state championships as a kicker and punter on his way to being named Florida's Gatorade Player of the Year in 2017. 

After going undrafted in 2018, Joseph signed with Miami Dolphins but did not appear in any games for them before being waived later that year without ever kicking a ball live during an exhibition game or preseason contest.

On 6 October 2019, Greg Joseph re-signed with the Minnesota Vikings after spending time on injured reserve earlier that month due to a groin injury sustained against Carolina Panthers (he kicked one extra point ). 

Greg Joseph was a successful collegiate kicker who made the transition to the NFL with ease. He has had a great career so far, winning two Super Bowls and earning Pro Bowl recognition along the way. 

Joseph is an accurate kicker who can make any field goal from long range, making him one of the most dangerous weapons on his team's offense.

49. D. J. Wonnum

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (2020–present)

D. J. Wonnum attended Stephenson High School in Stone Mountain, Georgia and played linebacker for the school's football team as a junior and senior. 

Wonnum was highly recruited by college coaches after his standout play at the high school level and chose to attend South Carolina over offers from several other schools.

As a redshirt freshman during the 2016 season, Wonnum appeared in six games and recorded seven tackles before injuring his shoulder late in the year; 

He missed all of 2017 due to surgery on that shoulder but returned for 2018 with improved form and emerged as one of SC's key defenders beginning in September of that year.

In 2020, Wonnum was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings with their fourth-round pick (117th overall) and has since made two starts for them off the bench while also appearing in five games total across all competitions including four starts this season. D. J. Wonnum is a young, up-and-coming linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings.

He was a standout at Vanderbilt and has continued his success in the NFL so far. In 2019, Wonnum was named to Second Team All-SEC after posting 91 tackles, 14 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and 5 pass deflections throughout the season.

His play earned him rave reviews from scouts and analysts alike - he's clearly one of the top prospects in this year's draft class.

At just 23 years old, D.J., as he is commonly known, looks poised to have an illustrious career in the NFL - don't be surprised if you see him make some big plays on Sundays soon.

Also Played For: south carolina gamecocks football

50. Garrett Bradbury

Center

Career

• Rimington Trophy (2018)
• Consensus All-American (2018)
• First team All-ACC (2018)

Garrett Bradbury was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He played college football at NC State and started all four years for them.

Garrett is a center and will likely start out his career as their starting player at that position. He has good size, strength, and athleticism which should make him an effective player in the NFL.

Garrett is still young so he has time to develop into one of the best centers in the league Garrett Bradbury is one of the top offensive linemen in the NFL and he has been a staple on Minnesota Vikings’ offense for several years.

He was named to All-ACC First Team in 2018, as well as being selected as a consensus first-team all-American. Garrett Bradbury started 57 games at left tackle for the Minnesota Vikings over his career and has helped them reach two NFC Championship Games (2017 & 2018).

His accolades include being awarded Rimington Trophy in 2018, which is given to the best center or guard in the NFL, and Consensus All-American status in both the 2017 and 2018 seasons. 

Garrett Bradbury is entering his ninth season with Minnesota Vikings, having signed a four-year contract extension worth $48 million back in September of 2020.

Also Played For: nfl preseason, nc state wolfpack football

51. Olisaemeka Udoh

Tackle

Career

• Minnesota Vikings (2019–present)

Oli Udoh was one of the most highly touted players in this year's draft and he lived up to expectations. He has the exceptional size for a guard, is strong at the point of contact, and can move well laterally.

Udoh played center as a freshman at Elon but shifted to guard his sophomore season due to injury issues on the offensive line. In both positions, he showed great athleticism and strength.

 Oli Udoh started all 16 games for Minnesota last season and was an important part of their offense down the stretch run-ins injuries kept him from playing more in 2018. 

The Vikings drafted Ole Miss tackle Brian O'Neill with the 6th pick in 2019 but they could have also used some help along their offensive line so it will be interesting to see where Olisaemeka Udoh goes next month Olisaemeka Udoh is a defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings.

He was originally drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in the third round of the 2014 NFL Draft, but he never played for them. Udoh then signed with the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent and spent three seasons with them before joining Minnesota in 2019. 

In his first season with Minnesota, he recorded eight tackles and two sacks in 16 games played. Udoh has also been involved in some controversy during his career, most notably when he threw a punch at Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston during their Week 3 matchup back in 2018 which resulted in him being suspended for one game. 

However, it seems that Udoh is trying to turn things around after spending time away from football working on personal issues earlier this year.

Final Words

The Minnesota Vikings are one of the most successful NFL teams in history, with a total of 11 division championships and two Super Bowl titles. They boast some of the best players ever to lace up a football shoe, including Pro Football Hall-of-Famer Herschel Walker, who was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1985.

Other legendary Viking players include Randy Moss, Cris Carter and Chad Greenway.