Veteran Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jim Marshall, who held the NFL record for most consecutive games played, has died at 87. Marshall joined the team in 1961 and appeared in every game thereafter, setting a record of 282 consecutive games played. He broke his own record when quarterback Brett Favre surpassed him in 2009.
Marshall gained a place in NFL lore with his infamous ‘wrong way’ return in 1964, celebrating what he thought was a touchdown but instead it was a safety. The Vikings captain for 14 seasons, Marshall appeared in four Super Bowls as part of the Purple People Eaters defense. Despite sacks not being an official statistic until 1982, Marshall’s career is credited with 130.5 sacks.
The Minnesota Vikings organization is mourning the loss of Jim Marshall, describing him as a player who embodied toughness, camaraderie, and passion. His legacy will be remembered by his teammates, opponents, and fans worldwide.
Source: https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/45444339/vikings-great-jim-marshall-played-282-straight-games-dies