Who was Jim Marshall? NFL icon and Vikings legend dies at 87

Jim Marshall, the legendary defensive end for the Minnesota Vikings and a cornerstone of the NFL’s famous Purple People Eaters defensive line, has passed away at the age of 87.

According to a CBS News report, the Minnesota Vikings announced his death in a social media post on June 3, 2025. They wrote:

“The #Vikings family mourns the loss of Legend Jim Marshall. Marshall set the standard for what it meant to be a Minnesota Viking, starting 270 consecutive games, appearing in 4 Super Bowls and serving as team captain for 14 consecutive seasons.”

The cause of his death was not revealed; however, his team indicated that his death occurred “following a lengthy hospitalization.” According to Fox News, he was a Kentucky native who was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 1960 NFL draft. He served as team captain and played 282 consecutive games from 1961 to 1979, according to a report in USA Today.

He is remembered by his fans, family, and colleagues for his extraordinary performance and for leaving a lasting impact on football.

Tributes pour in as Jim Marshall passes away

Let us look at how the sports community has paid him their tributes on his passing.

“Jim Marshall, a celebrated member of the Vikings’ Purple People Eaters defensive line who started 270 consecutive NFL games, died Tuesday after a long hospitalization, the team announced. Marshall was 87.” Reporter Adam Schefter tweeted.

“When I think of Minnesota tough and the Vikings , it's Jim Marshall. RIP, Captain.” A user tweeted.

“Had the opportunity a number of years ago to meet with Mr. Marshall at his office. He was very articulate and displayed great humility for a man who accomplished much in his athletic career. RIP” Another person added.

“There will never be another like the forever captain of the Vikings, Jim Marshall who passed away after a lengthy illness. It was an absolute honor to know him. Deepest condolences to his wonderful wife Sue.Number 70 will live on.” A user wrote.

“Vikings defensive end Jim Marshall was a great player on so many levels. I grew up in Minneapolis watching him. My thoughts on his impact and legacy following his passing today. RIP” Chief National Reporter for NFL Network, Steve Wyche wrote.

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“Jim Marshall was one of the nicest, most wonderful people that I've ever met in my entire life. He just was a wonderful person outside the football. But in terms of football, he was the ultimate captain.” Former Viking Ahmad Rashad said in a statement, per CBS News.

According to a report in The New York Times, Marshall married twice in his life. He was first married to Anita Baker, which ended in divorce. He married Susan Landwehr in 2008. In addition to Susan, he is survived by his two daughters, Angie Marshall Moore and Jimi Belanger, his sister Deloris Bosley, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

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