Fran Tarkenton
Inducted:
1986
Player Stats
6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
190 lb (86 kg)
Born:
February 3, 1940
Richmond, Virginia, U.S.
Position:
Quarterback
College:
Georgia (1958–1960)
Fran Tarkenton was one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in NFL history, redefining the position with his scrambling style and ability to improvise. Playing primarily for the Minnesota Vikings, along with an early stint in New York, he became the prototype for the modern mobile quarterback. Tarkenton retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards, completions, and touchdown passes, combining efficiency with creativity. He led the Vikings to three Super Bowl appearances and was known for his durability, leadership, and relentless competitive spirit.
His ability to extend plays and turn broken situations into big gains made him one of the league’s most difficult quarterbacks to defend. Off the field, he became a respected entrepreneur and media figure while remaining closely connected to the game. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986, Tarkenton left a legacy as a pioneer whose influence can still be seen in today’s dual-threat quarterbacks.
Tarkenton's Awards and Honors
- NFL Most Valuable Player (1975)
- First-team All-Pro (1975)
- Second-team All-Pro (1973)
- 9× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1967–1970, 1974–1976)
NFL Records
- NFL passing yards leader (1978)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1975)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1977)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1975)
NFL Teams
Minnesota Vikings (1961–1966,1972–1978)
New York Giants (1967–1971)
NFL Draft:
1961: 3rd round, 29th overall pick
Minnesota Vikings
Number Worn:
10
NFL Stats
Seasons:
18 (1961–1978)
Games Played:
246
Game Started:
239
Passing attempts:
6,467
Passing completions:
3,686
Completion percentage:
57.0%
TD–INT:
342–266
Passer rating:
80.4
Passing yards:
47,003
Rushing yards:
3,674
Rushing touchdowns:
32