Paul Krause
Inducted:
1998
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
200 lb (91 kg)
Born:
February 19, 1942
Flint, Michigan, U.S.
Position:
Safety
College:
Iowa (1960–1963)
Paul Krause was one of the most skilled and instinctive safeties in NFL history, renowned for his ball-hawking ability and football intelligence. Born on February 19, 1942, he played 16 seasons in the league — with the Washington Redskins (1964–1967) and Minnesota Vikings (1968–1979). Krause’s anticipation and awareness made him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks, as he intercepted 81 passes — still the most in NFL history.
A key member of the Vikings’ dominant “Purple People Eaters” defense, he helped lead Minnesota to four Super Bowl appearances. Over his career, Krause earned eight Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998, he remains a symbol of consistency, intelligence, and excellence in defensive play.
Krause's Awards and Honors
- NFL champion (1969)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (1964, 1965, 1975)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (1968, 1969, 1972)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1964, 1965, 1969, 1971–1975)
- NFL interceptions leader (1964)
NFL Records
- Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor
- Holds the NFL career record for interceptions (81)
- Played in four Super Bowls with the Minnesota Vikings
- Known for elite football IQ and durability, appearing in 226 career games
NFL Teams
Washington Redskins (1964–1967)
Minnesota Vikings (1968–1979)
NFL Draft:
1964: 2nd round, 18th overall pick
Washington Redskins
Number Worn:
26, 22
NFL Stats
Seasons:
16 (1964–1979)
Games played:
226
Game Started:
203
Interceptions:
81
Interception yards:
1,185
Touchdowns:
6
Fumble Recoveries:
19
Sacks:
2