EAGAN, Minn. — The legacy of Jim Marshall will live on forever.
While writing this intro, it feels surreal that Marshall, a true iron man who started 270 consecutive games for the Minnesota Vikings, has passed away at the age of 87.
Known to many who played alongside him as just "The Captain," Marshall symbolized invincibility to teammates, coaches, fans and opponents. He combined joy on and off the field with a generous and enduring spirit.
Vikings Legends who teamed with Marshall and those who shared in the identity he helped create for the franchise reacted to the news.
Carl Eller
"Jim Marshall is not dead. He is alive in my heart and in my soul, and he will always be my friend. He was inspirational to our team. Every week, he was ready to go. That's what everybody looked for and waited for. And sometimes, just a minute before a game, he would show up and say, 'Let's go, let's do it.' I love Jim Marshall."
Eller played on the opposite end of the Purple People Eaters from Marshall, teaming together from 1964-78.