The NFL’s Minnesota Vikings, have had their fair share of outstanding players since their inception in 1961.
From legendary quarterbacks to dynamic wide receivers and hard-hitting defensive players, the Vikings have showcased numerous talents throughout the years.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 10 Minnesota Vikings players of all time, highlighting their contributions to the team and their memorable moments on the field.
1. Fran Tarkenton (QB, 1961-1966, 1972-1978)
Arguably the greatest quarterback in Vikings history, Fran Tarkenton was a pioneer of the mobile quarterback role. Known for his ability to extend plays with his legs he charged ahead 56 times for a total of 308 yards.
Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s. He retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards, touchdowns, and completions, earning nine Pro Bowl selections and an NFL MVP award for his 1975 season.
2. Alan Page (DT, 1967-1978)
Alan Page was a cornerstone of the Vikings’ legendary “Purple People Eaters” defensive line. Page was the first defensive player to win the NFL MVP award in 1971, and his dominance earned him nine Pro Bowl selections and six First-Team All-Pro honors.
Page’s tenacious play and leadership helped the Vikings reach four Super Bowls during his tenure.
3. Randy Moss (WR, 1998-2004, 2010)
Randy Moss’ explosive speed, leaping ability, and incredible hands made him one of the most feared wide receivers in NFL history. During his time with the Vikings, Moss earned five Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro three times.
Moss set the NFL rookie record for touchdown receptions with 17 in 1998, and he finished his career with 156 total touchdowns, ranking him second all-time among wide receivers.
4. Cris Carter (WR, 1990-2001)
Cris Carter was a true master of the sideline catch and had an uncanny ability to make difficult receptions. Carter spent 12 seasons with the Vikings, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and being named First-Team All-Pro twice. He retired with 130 career touchdown receptions, ranking him fourth on the all-time list.
5. Adrian Peterson (RB, 2007-2016)
Adrian Peterson, or “All Day” as he was nicknamed, is widely regarded as one of the best running backs in NFL history. During his time with the Vikings, Peterson racked up seven Pro Bowl selections, four First-Team All-Pro honors, and won the NFL MVP award in 2012.
He also came just eight yards short of breaking Eric Dickerson’s single-season rushing record that year.
6. Carl Eller (DE, 1964-1978)
Carl Eller was another key member of the “Purple People Eaters” defensive line. With his incredible strength and speed, Eller racked up 130.5 sacks during his time with the Vikings.
He was selected to six Pro Bowls and named First-Team All-Pro five times, and his stellar play contributed to the team’s four Super Bowl appearances during his tenure.
7. John Randle (DT, 1990-2000)
John Randle was an undrafted free agent who became one of the most dominant defensive tackles of his era.
Randle’s relentless motor and tenacity earned him six First-Team All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl appearances as a Viking. He retired with 137.5 career sacks, ranking him ninth on the all-time list.
8. Ron Yary (OT, 1968-1981)
Ron Yary was a rock-solid offensive tackle who protected the blindside of Minnesota’s quarterbacks for 14 seasons. Yary was the first overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft and lived up to expectations, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and six First-Team All-Pro honors.
His durability and consistent play were instrumental in the Vikings’ offensive success during the team’s golden era.
9. Paul Krause (S, 1968-1979)
Paul Krause is the NFL’s all-time leader in interceptions with 81, and he secured 53 of those during his 12 seasons with the Vikings. Krause’s ball-hawking skills earned him eight Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. He was a key component of the Vikings’ dominant defense during their four Super Bowl appearances.
10. Randall McDaniel (OG, 1988-1999)
Randall McDaniel was a versatile and athletic offensive guard who excelled in both run blocking and pass protection.
McDaniel spent 12 seasons with the Vikings, earning 11 Pro Bowl selections and seven First-Team All-Pro honors. His outstanding play and leadership helped pave the way for the Vikings’ offensive success during his tenure.
Final Thoughts
The Minnesota Vikings have been home to many remarkable players over the years, and this list highlights just a few of the most impactful. While the Vikings have yet to secure a Super Bowl victory, these players have left an indelible mark on the franchise’s history and the NFL as a whole.
Each of these top 10 Minnesota Vikings players of all time holds a special place in the hearts of fans, and their contributions to the team will forever be remembered.
