Fran Tarkenton, Legendary Minnesota Vikings Quarterback and Hall of Famer, Passes Away at 85
Fran Tarkenton, Legendary Minnesota Vikings Quarterback and Hall of Famer, Passes Away at 85
Fran Tarkenton, the iconic quarterback whose dynamic play defined an era for the Minnesota Vikings, has passed away at the age of 85. Tarkenton’s career, spanning 18 seasons in the NFL, left an indelible mark on the sport and solidified his status as a Hall of Famer.
Born on February 3, 1940, in Richmond, Virginia, Tarkenton was drafted by the Vikings in the third round of the 1961 NFL Draft. He quickly became the team’s starting quarterback, leading them to three Super Bowl appearances in 1970, 1974, and 1976. Known for his exceptional scrambling ability and leadership, Tarkenton amassed career totals of 47,003 passing yards, 342 touchdown passes, and 3,674 rushing yards. At the time of his retirement in 1978, these figures were NFL records.
Accolades and Achievements
Tarkenton’s contributions were widely recognized throughout his career:
Nine-time Pro Bowl selection
NFL Most Valuable Player in 1975
Six-time All-NFL selection
His jersey number 10 was retired by the Vikings, honoring his legacy with the team.
Beyond football, Tarkenton ventured into business and media. He founded Tarkenton Software, a company specializing in computer programming tools, and later served as a commentator on “Monday Night Football.” His post-football career reflected his innovative spirit and adaptability.
Fran Tarkenton’s influence extended beyond statistics. His improvisational style and leadership set new standards for quarterbacks, inspiring future generations. The Minnesota Vikings and their fans mourn the loss of a true legend whose impact on the game will be remembered for years to come.
