It's all about being a Viking. Honorable mentions: Jim Marshall, Jared Allen and Kevin Williams. The NFLPA specifically mentioned that they provide all three meals. The Vikings weight room was built in 2018 and received glowing reviews. Karl Kassulke was known in NFL circles as a fierce hitter, but Robert Griffith made a career out of it. 22 firstmainly because of his longevity and his interception record. INDIANAPOLIS (AP)The Minnesota Vikings treat their players best, according to a new NFL Players Association survey. The Vikings drafted Camryn Bynum out of Cal and converted the cornerback to safety, which worked out well for the youngster. The team's first-round draft choice in 1983, he came from USC to the NFL and quickly established himself as one of the best players in the league on special teams. The Minnesota Vikings were the valedictorians of the survey, finishing first among all 32 NFL franchises. 2021 Vikings Position Recap: Defensive Line, 2021 Vikings Position Recap: Offensive Line, 2021 Vikings Position Recap: Wide Receivers, 2021 Vikings Position Recap: Running Backs, 2021 Vikings Position Recap: Quarterbacks. His intense passion for the game and endless pursuit of perfection made him one of the most fearsome safeties of his. He was voted AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, selected for six Pro Bowls, and chosen for the 2000s NFL All-Decade Team. Your favorite teams, topics, and players all on your favorite mobile devices. When it comes to the greatest Vikings quarterback, Fran Tarkenton tops just about every list.He is considered the best quarterback the franchise has ever seen, and he led the team to three Super Bowls during his latter seven years with them. Some have been ball hawks, while others have been huge hitters. These are the top 15 hardest hitters to ever come through the NFL. Top 10 BEST SAFETIES of All Time And How to Shoot Them 56,661 views Dec 16, 2020 1.2K Dislike DrDaveBilliards 240K subscribers Dr. Dave recreates and analyzes the 10 best safeties of all time. In his first year in Minnesota, he picked off passes in six straight games, which is still a team record. Other players, particularlyAdrian Peterson, would have been fun in any era. Five minutes into the fourth quarter, Woods recorded a strip sack of Rush, and linebacker Anthony Barr was able to recover the fumble. As he got older, Winfield became the best tackling corner back in the NFL, and was stout against the run. By the time his nine seasons in purple were over, he had racked up some serious statistics. The report card explains that the weight room is new and players are happy with it. 98% of the players felt like the Vikings had enough strength coaches. Smith totaled a career-high 114 tackles (83 solo), which ranked second on the team behind linebacker Eric Kendricks. 1 / 100 Minnesota Vikings 2 / 100. Bynum flashed in an extremely small sample size. Cromwell started off as a key contributor at nickelback and on special teams. Chris Hanburger 9. Ronnie Lott 4. The Commanders were at the bottom of the rankings, with the Cardinals 31st and the Chargers 30th. Steve Atwater was the greatest run-support safety of all time. The World Champion Bears in 1963 hold one of the best defenses of all-time, and of course this is probably behind a few other Bears teams. For more information, please read our Legal Disclaimer. EAGAN, Minn. The Vikings combined a mixture of veteran experience and youth at the safety position in 2021. February 28, 2023. The browser you are using is no longer supported on this site. In a comparison between Krause and Smith, even though they come from different eras, the edge would easily go to the player who wore No. Bush could be a solid replacement on the market. Pro-football-reference.com has provided advanced defensive stats since 2018 that are a decent metric of summarizing cornerbacks' play. He adopted intimidation tactics, trash-talking, and a larger-than-life presence on the field that waged absolute psychological warfare. Ed Reed's impact should not be downplayed, however. Especially intriguing is Metellus, who received more opportunities this past year, including in the nickel when Mackensie Alexander missed the regular-season finale. He received only a brief suspension during his legal battle and continued to play with the Vikings until 2016 before signing a contract with the New Orleans Saints. Browner was later named to the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Team of the '80s. He played with the Vikings from 2007 to 2016, barring a brief suspension in 2014 when he pleaded no contest to a charge of misdemeanor reckless assault against his then-four-year-old son. The Minnesota Vikings were the valedictorians of the survey, finishing first among all 32 NFL franchises. The Vikings had several Hall of Famers suit up for them during their Super Bowl years like Fran Tarkenton, Alan Page and Ron Yary. Sean Taylor 6. Three Seahawks named among NFL.com's top safeties of all time Teams AFC East Bills Dolphins Jets Patriots AFC North Bengals Browns Ravens Steelers AFC South Colts Jaguars Texans Titans AFC. He spent fourteen years with the Vikings and played starting right tackle from his second season on.. In the 1996 Pro Bowl, he made history as the first guard to catch a touchdown pass. The goal: assemble the scariest, most talented roster from Vikings historya group that promises to make the crowd roar without allowing a score. Griffith, who was the Vikings' starting strong safety for six years, was one of the most feared defenders in the NFL. The data was averaged for the number of years each duo players together. "Lewis is in a great spot right now, he's well ahead of his . Currently, the team is roughly $24 million over . Also among the position group were 2020 additions Josh Metellus (sixth round) and Myles Dorn (undrafted). He rose to the occasion with grace, demonstrating determination and discipline over his 12 seasons. He helped the Bucs to a Super Bowl title his rookie year and followed that up with a . All picks and predictions are suggestions only. He spent eleven seasons with the Vikings, played in seven Pro Bowls, and finished the last couple years of his career with the Seattle Seahawks before retiring in 2003, and is remembered for his energy as a true defensive force. The Minnesota Vikings were praised for their cafeteria, with 100% of players saying there is enough room. Eller is credited with the most sacks in Viking history, and, despite his 66 247 lb frame, possessed surprising speed and agility. Regarding staff, 95% of players felt the Vikings had enough athletic trainers (ATCs), and 92% said they had enough physical therapists (PTs). Smith already was with the team in Baltimore when he received the positive test, and he later thanked the Wilf family for providing him with a private flight back to Minnesota. L.C. As Easley is often looked past due to his short career in the NFL, his play on the field was at a top level and one that had in the elite group . When the opposing quarterback inevitably has to get the ball out early, Krause will be there for the interception. His skill kept him on the field even when his reliability was brought into question. He retired in 2001 after playing a final season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and got licensed to work in the Minnesota Elementary school system helping mentor disadvantaged children in his community, a cause he was passionate about throughout his football career.Fans and peers regard him as one of the best offensive linemen in the league, and he has been applauded throughout his career for his athleticism, leadership, and character. No pair of safeties has performed better or lifted their defense higher than the Vikings' tandem of Harris and Smith. Two former Vikings were listed in his top group. The Minnesota Vikings new training staff was a welcome change from the previous regime. The report card stated that several players had a negative experience with the old head trainer. A Super Bowl winner, Reed is a name that can be overlooked when discussing the best safeties of all-time. While some may dispute when a DB should be assessed with a snap in coverage (a zone may or may not tell the full story), here's a look at passer rating allowed by Vikings safeties who played at least 150 defensive snaps: Bynum: 20.3 (4-of-8 passing, 31 yards, 0 TDs and 1 INT), Smith: 98.7 (29-of-40 passing, 368 yards, 1 TD and 1 INT), Woods: 110.4 (30-of-50 passing, 525 yards, 6 TDs and 3 INTs). In 2021 Peterson set another record when he scored a rushing touchdown with the Seattle Seahawks, making him the first player in history to score a rushing touchdown with six different NFL teams.Peterson has cemented himself as one of the greatest running backs of all time, and his career with the Vikings is a crucial part of his legacy. The Vikings have drafted well over the years. 9. https://vikingswire.usatoday.com/2017/07/05/vikings-have-2-of-the-top-safeties-of-all-time/, Your California Privacy Rights/Privacy Policy. Dolemans 150 career sacks gave him All-Pro honors three times, earning his place on the 90s team of the decade. The crash left him paralyzed from the waist down, ending a stellar career. He was eventually cut from the Eagles after failing several drug tests. After combing through Minnesotas starters for each year, here are the franchises top 10 safety duos of all-time. Minnesota Vikings. Williams is vastly underrated and is simply one of the NFL's top free safeties right now. While stats are taken into account, there are other, more subjective criteria as well. Who are the best Minnesota Vikings football players of all time? 3 spot on this list of greatest Vikings safeties. 15 Worst Free Agents Signings of All-Time. The report card mentioned that all players felt like owner . He played for the University of Georgia and was drafted to the Vikings in 1961 when the team was just getting its start. Those are true Vikings. It also called Kevin OConnell one of the most player-friendly coaches., The overview finished saying that the Vikings are a shining example of what is possible when a concerted investment is made in both staffing and facilities.. NFL-record four career safeties Recorded 136 career sacks (No. Eller led the charge in four Minnesota Vikings campaigns that led to Super Bowl appearances, and hardly ever missed a start throughout his career. Bynum secured his first career sack against Chargers QB Justin Herbert, and he also recorded a pass defensed and a tackle for loss. Cris Carter was born November 25, 1965, in Troy, Ohio, and played college ball at Ohio State University. Even though he was limited to part-time duty during his first two seasons, he still managed three interceptions and an amazing seven fumble recoveries. NFL teams were graded on eight categories with a grading range of F to A+. Part two of the Greatest Minnesota Vikingsof all time focuses on the defense. A fairly steady tackler, Thomas was known more for his pass coverage than his fierce hits. It doesn't lean on the Hall of Fame for selections, either. O'Connell gave a positive update on Cine's recovery process, noting the young safety's clear excitement about the upcoming season. Harrison Smith & Anthony Harris, Minnesota Vikings. A season ago, Harris (91.6) and Smith (91.4) produced PFF's top two coverage grades among players at the position. The eight categories included: treatment of families, nutrition, weight room, strength staff, training room, locker room,andtravel. Paul Krause was the original ball hawk of the Minnesota Vikings. He even helped push the Vikings to all four of their Super Bowl appearances and four championship victories, playing in the Vikings most successful era and demonstrating an impeccable work ethic and sportsmanship. Gil Brandt from NFL.com has been rattling off his best at each position group this offseason. Big fan of Minnesota football? Bobby Bryant played corner back in all four Super Bowls for the Minnesota Vikings. 10. It only took Sendejo 10 days to find another job after Minnesota declined the option on his contract as he signed a one-year deal worth $1.3 million with the Philadelphia Eagles. Kassulke was drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1963. We rank the best safeties in the NFL. Players also do not have roommates during their trips. Led the Vikings to three of their four Superbowls in 1974, 1975, and 1977, Became the first defensive player to receive the NFLs MVP award, Part of the legendary Vikings defensive line known as The Purple People Eaters, Set a record when he was selected twelve times consecutively for the Pro Bowl, Regarded as the real muscle behind the notorious Purple People Eaters, Selected for the Vikings 40th and 50th Anniversary teams, NFL 1,000-Yard Clubs Top Offensive Lineman of the Year in 1969, Selected for the NFLs All-Decade Team for the 1990s, Widely considered the Vikings greatest. Joe Jacoby 13. The Raiders and Texans were the only two in the top five to finish with a losing record, while the Vikings, Dolphins, and Cowboys all made the . They've drafted two of the best players ever in Randy Moss and 2012 NFL MVP Adrian Peterson. 2023 Minute Media - All Rights Reserved. According to On3 Sports' Matt Zenitz, the Vikings are hiring Colorado's defensive tackles coach Patrick Hill to be their new assistant defensive line coach. Tarkentons eventual return to the Vikings in 1972 brought even more success.He played another seven years and led the Vikings to six NFC Central Division titles and three of their four Super Bowls. Every player felt like the locker room had enough space, which was the best in the league. He also managed 17 interceptions, though he wasn't known for his hands. Flores sees safeties as an integral piece on the chess board and uses them in a variety of ways. Who Are The Atlanta Falcons' Biggest Rivals? Seasons:2012, 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2006, 2005, 2004, Seasons:1993, 1992, 1991, 1990, 1989, 1988, 1987, 1986, 1985, Seasons: 2018, 2017, 2016, 2015, 2014, 2013, Seasons:1980, 1979, 1978, 1977, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973, 1972,1971, 1970, 1969, Seasons:1978, 1977, 1976, 1975, 1974, 1973, Seasons:1971, 1970, 1969, 1968, 1967, 1966, 1965, 1964, 1963, 1962. Who Is The Best Wide Receiver In The NFL Right Now? Woods provided the experience the Vikings hoped for in the secondary, but he also was targeted most by opponents who likely veered away from a six-time Pro Bowler in Smith, who played more at the line of scrimmage than Woods. 0. Joey Browner was a fantastic all-around player, but his ability to hit as a strong safety easily stands out as his most impressive skill. But, this time Im ranking best safety duos in Vikings history. Ray Lewis was the star of the great Ravens defense. Smith suited up for his seventh season in Purple and started all 16 games. 9. Minnesota Vikings: Greatest All-Time Defense From the Purple People Eaters to Purple Reign, the Minnesota Vikings have struck fear into opposing offenses for over 50 years. Greenwood. Studwell didnt receive many accolades for his play, but the tape suggests that was a mistake. Players had no complaints regarding the Vikings new locker room. This linebacker corps covers all the bases: they are elite in coverage and stopping the run. Polamalu was a four-time First Team All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowler, was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2010 and helped the Steelers win two Super Bowls during his 12 seasons. The Vikings received glowing reviews from players on how they treated their families. The Vikings have had a number of superstars wear the purple and gold. Dr. Dave recreates and analyzes the 10 best safeties of all time executed by pros other than Efren Reyes.This is part of the \"Most Famous Pool Shots\" series: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLH9d4KFY28XscHllvlP_rVC1jQjDXZmYDShots Included and Source Video Links:- Intro [0:00]1. Darrell Green 3. Honorable mentions: Roy Winston, Wally Hilgenberg and Chad Greenway. By the time Randle was finished, he had 114 career sacks, made six straight pro bowls as a starter and made the NFL team of the decade in the 90s. He earned his reputation as The Scrambler because, in an era when it was practically taboo, Tarkenton was unafraid to run for the ball. Kam Chancellor NFL rules have changed throughout the years. Francisco Bustamante carom off three rails to hide, against Thorsten Hohmann [8:00]: https://youtu.be/uJ-ixqSywDc?t=6148. The Vikings ended up falling just short in the Week 9 contest, but Bynum's big play helped give them a chance. Carnell Lake performed swimmingly for 10 seasons as a Steeler in the Burgh. He was known as much for his consistency as his stature and grit. Albin Ouschan 3-rail bank hide, against China team [1:30]: https://youtu.be/xi2KtnHkp8k?t=613. For his outstanding performance throughout most of the '80s and his high rankings in the Vikings record books, Joey Browner outdistances Robert Griffith for second place on the list of great Minnesota safeties. Strong Safety. In some circumstances, they need to hit like linebackers to stop the running game. The content on this site is for entertainment and educational purposes only. He is an elite football mind, he is elite in pass protection and he has a tendency to knock players into their seats. He played in all four of the Vikings Super Bowl appearances and helped the team win two NFL Central Division titles, three NFC titles, and nine NFC Central championships. The team has had a lot of success, making the Super Bowl in 1969 along with 25 playoff berths since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970. 2. On Halloween night and the prime-time stage, he had a spook-tacular outing against his former team. Charles Mann 16. Harris also finished second at the position in terms of . He isnt just an all-time Vikings player, he is an all-time NFL player. Formed in 1961, the Minnesota Vikings have been one of the NFL's hard luck franchises. Matt Blair leads all Minnesota Vikings linebackers with 16 career interceptions from the outside linebacker spot. Darren Appleton hide behind small ball with distance, with Mark Gray [3:27]: https://youtu.be/w8DF4lqN6IQ?t=23955. Krause was named All-NFL four times, started in four Super Bowls and has a Minnesota Vikings record with 10 interceptions in a year. Tarkenton was the first Viking ever to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and is recognized for his skill, consistency, and innovation as one of the greatest QBs of all time. 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