Merlin Olsen
Inducted:
1982
Player Stats
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
270 lb (122 kg)
Born:
September 15, 1940
Logan, Utah, U.S.
Died:
March 11, 2010
Duarte, California, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Utah State (1959–1961)
Merlin Olsen was one of the most dominant and respected defensive linemen in NFL history, known for his strength, intelligence, and unwavering consistency. Playing his entire 15-year career (1962–1976) with the Los Angeles Rams, Olsen anchored the legendary “Fearsome Foursome” defensive line alongside Deacon Jones, transforming the Rams into one of football’s toughest defenses. A model of durability, he never missed a game in his career, appearing in 208 consecutive contests.
Olsen earned 14 Pro Bowl selections—a record for a defensive lineman—and was named First-Team All-Pro six times. His rare combination of technique, power, and football IQ made him nearly unstoppable against both the run and pass. Off the field, Olsen was admired for his character, later becoming a successful broadcaster and actor. Merlin Olsen was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1982, remembered as one of the finest defensive players and gentlemen ever to play the game.
Olsen's Awards and Honors
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1966–1970)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1963–1965)
- 14× Pro Bowl (1962–1975)
- NFL 1960s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
- NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
NFL Records
- Member of the “Fearsome Foursome”
- Never missed a game in 15 seasons
- One of the most honored defensive linemen in NFL history
NFL Teams
Los Angeles Rams (1962–1976)
NFL Draft:
1962: 1st round, 3rd overall pick
Los Angeles Rams
Number Worn:
74
NFL Stats
Seasons:
15 (1962–1976)
Games Played:
208
Game Started:
208
Fumble recoveries:
9
Interceptions:
1
Total touchdowns:
1
Sacks:
91.0
