Ranking the 10 greatest Minnesota Vikings of all time

2. Fran Tarkenton, QB (1961-66, 1972-78)

The Vikings selected Tarkenton — their first-ever quarterback — in the third round of the 1961 draft. Tarkenton went on to play for Minnesota through the 1966 season and then went to the New York Giants from 1972-78 before returning once more to Minnesota. Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Superbowls (VIII, IX and XI). He was named the NFL’s MVP in 1975 and played in nine Pro Bowls. When he retired in 1978, Tarkenton led NFL passers in attempts (6,467), completions (3,686), passing yards (47,003), and touchdown passes (342). He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1986 and the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor in 1998.

September 17, 1961

The #Vikings play and win the first regular season game in their franchise's history, ripping the Bears in Bloomington, 37-13.

Rookie future-HOF QB Fran Tarkenton, making his NFL debut, comes off the bench early to throw 4 TD passes while rushing for another. pic.twitter.com/sR1jiyIn5z

— Kevin Gallagher (@KevG163) September 18, 2023