Legendary NFL Defensive Lineman, Jim Marshall, Dies at 87

Marshall, who played for the Minnesota Vikings for 19 seasons, died following a lengthy hospitalization.

Minnesota Viking tackle Jim Marshall clutches the game ball as he is carried from the field by teammates Doug Southerland (L) and Scott Studwell after the Vikings defeated the Buffalo Bills 10-3 in an NFL football game in Bloomington, Minn., on Dec. 9, 1979. Jim Mone/AP Photo

Jim Marshall, longtime Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman, has died at 87-years-old.

The team announced news of his passing, on behalf of his wife, Susan Marshall, in a June 3 press release.

The exact manner of death was not disclosed, however Marshall was hospitalized for a lengthy period of time.

“Beyond athletic prowess, Marshall’s legacy is one of an enduring and endearing spirit and deep generosity,” read the release.

“His exuberance positively affected countless others, and his memory will continue to inspire.”

In a separate statement, Vikings president and owner, Mark Wilf, chairman Zygi Wilf, and the Wilf family said they remembered the legacy and determination Marshall displayed throughout his 20-year NFL career.

“The entire Minnesota Vikings organization is mourning the loss of Jim Marshall,” read the statement.

“No player in Vikings history lived the ideals of toughness, camaraderie and passion more than the all-time iron man.”

Since his debut with the Vikings in 1961, Marshall played nearly 300 NFL games, notably holding 270 consecutive starts with the team.

“Jim led by example, and there was no finer example for others to follow,” the statement continued.

“His impact on the Vikings was felt long after he left the field. Jim will always be remembered as a tremendous player and person.“

In 1961, Marshall was traded by the Cleveland Browns to Minnesota after a rookie season and led the team to a 1969 NFL championship.

With the Vikings, Marshall served as captain for 14 seasons and played in all four of the team’s Super Bowl appearances throughout the 1970s.

“Known affectionately as ‘The Captain’ or ‘Captain Jim’—or ‘Mis-ter Mar-shall’ if the addressor was legendary Head Coach Bud Grant—Marshall started every game for the entirety of the Vikings franchise’s first two decades.”

He was a two-time Pro Bowler in 1966 and 1972, and notably held the NFL record for consecutive games played, which was later broken by Brett Favre in 2008.

Marshall retired in December of 1979, at the time addressing football fans with a simple goodbye.

”I just hope I’ve given you as many thrills as you fans have given me. Thank you,” he said.

A celebration of life for Marshall will be planned for a later date.

He is survived by his wife Susan and two daughters from a previous marriage.