One of the defining fixtures of the Bud Grant era was the “Purple People Eaters,” a defensive line that became legendary for getting into the backfield and wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks and running backs.
Both Carl Eller and Alan Page have been inducted into the hall of fame. And while Gary Larsen had some good years, he might not have strung enough great seasons together to make the hall of fame.
But what about Jim Marshall? Many have argued that there should be three “Purple People Eaters” to earn hall of fame recognition, as opposed to two. CBS Sports is one of the latest to do so. Here’s what the outlet said about Marshall:
“A valued member of Minnesota’s “Purple People Eaters” defensive line, Marshall holds numerous NFL records that includes the most seasons played by a defensive player (20, along with Junior Seau and Darrell Green), most consecutive games by a defensive player (282), most consecutive starts by a defensive player (270), and most career fumble recoveries (30). Marshall, who was still a starter at age 42, helped the Vikings win three NFC titles along with the NFL championship in 1969.”
CBS Sports also considered running back Chuck Foreman as a possible pick for the Vikings.