For a franchise that has never won a Super Bowl, the Minnesota Vikings have an impressive array of great players. Compiling a ranked list of the best Vikings players of all time is a challenging task, with several Hall of Famers barely missing the cut.
Founded in 1960, the Vikings have experienced substantial success, securing the last NFL championship and making four Super Bowl appearances amidst over 30 playoff berths. This highlights the exceptional talent Minnesota has showcased over the past six decades.
This talent includes renowned names like Carl Eller, Paul Krause, Mick Tingelhoff, Randall McDaniel, Ron Yary, Chris Doleman, and John Randle, all Hall of Famers who didn’t make this list.
The players featured here are some of the most dominant and decorated in NFL history. So, without further delay, let’s explore the five greatest Vikings players of all time, ranked.
1. Adrian Peterson
Adrian Peterson, a running back with the size of a linebacker, dominated the field throughout his career. Known as “All Day,” Peterson was renowned for his relentless running style. Drafted 7th overall in 2007, Peterson defied physics with his combination of size (6’1″, 220 pounds), speed, and agility. Over ten seasons with the Vikings, he made seven Pro Bowls, earned four First-Team All-Pro selections, and won the NFL MVP in 2012, rushing for 2,097 yards and 12 touchdowns that year. He led the league in rushing yards three times and scored 102 total touchdowns for the Vikings. Despite his remarkable performance, Peterson only made the playoffs four times and never reached the Super Bowl.
2. Fran Tarkenton
Fran Tarkenton, a dual-threat quarterback, would have been ideal for today’s NFL. He played for the Vikings in two stints (1961-66 and 1973-78) with five seasons for the New York Giants in between. Known for his scrambling and passing skills, Tarkenton led the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances and won the NFL MVP in 1975. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in passing yards (33,098) and touchdown passes (239). Despite never winning the Super Bowl, Tarkenton’s contributions solidified him as the franchise’s best quarterback.
3. Alan Page
Alan Page was the first defensive player to win the NFL MVP award in 1971. As a key member of the “Purple People Eaters” defensive line, Page made nine Pro Bowls and five First-Team All-Pro teams. He played in all four of the Vikings’ Super Bowl appearances and finished his career with 108.5 sacks for the Vikings. Post-football, Page became a judge on the Minnesota Supreme Court, making significant contributions off the field as well.
4. Randy Moss
Randy Moss was an electrifying wide receiver during his initial seven seasons with the Vikings. Known for his incredible speed and catching ability, Moss made five Pro Bowls and earned three First-Team All-Pro selections in Minnesota. Despite his attitude issues leading to his eventual trade, Moss’ early years with the Vikings were among the most exciting in NFL history. His standout performance on Thanksgiving Day in 1998 against the Dallas Cowboys is a testament to his incredible talent.
5. Cris Carter
Cris Carter turned his life around after joining the Vikings and became one of the franchise’s greatest players. Known for his ability to catch touchdowns, Carter led the league in touchdown receptions three times and helped the Vikings to eight playoff appearances in his 12 seasons with the team. He finished his Vikings career with 1,004 receptions, 12,383 yards, and 110 touchdowns, all franchise records. Carter’s journey from being cut by the Eagles due to off-field issues to becoming a model player and media personality is truly remarkable.
These five players represent the pinnacle of Vikings talent, contributing to the team’s rich history and enduring legacy.