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Vikings Set to Honor DE Legend Jim Marshall With Wholesome Gesture in 2025

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Nishant Gupta | Last updated Aug 7, 2025 4:05 PM ET

Legendary defensive end Jim Marshall spearheaded the Minnesota Vikings' Purple People Eaters defense. He joined the team in their first NFL season and retired a Viking in 1979. The former fourth-round pick set multiple records during his tenure with the franchise.

The former Vikings DE captained the team for 14 years. He held the record for most regular-season games started and most regular-season games played until Jeff Feagles and Brett Favre broke it in 2005 and 2009, respectively. He is tied for the most opponent fumbles recovered (29).

Marshall passed away on June 3, 2025, at 87, following a prolonged hospital stay. The Vikings announced on Thursday that they will honor the two-time Pro Bowler in the 2025 NFL season.

The Vikings' uniform will feature a white #70 sticker with 'Jim Marshall' written in golden letters for the entire upcoming season. Marshall's family will be recognized during the training session on Thursday.

The #Vikings will wear this #70 sticker throughout the 2025 season to honor Jim Marshall.

The Marshall family will also be recognized during this afternoon's training camp practice. pic.twitter.com/mso4wPgnBt
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) August 7, 2025

Marshall was drafted 44th overall by the Cleveland Browns in the 1960 NFL Draft. He moved to Minnesota in 1961 and never missed a game for the Vikings throughout his career. He logged 30 fumble recoveries and 130.5 sacks in 277 starts. Following his retirement, the franchise retired the No. 70.

The Vikings are set to play their preseason opener against the Houston Texans on Saturday. They will play the Patriots and the Bears before their Week 1 clash against the Chicago Bears on September 8. They have a new and inexperienced quarterback at the helm as they hope to carry the momentum from a 14-3 season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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