Established
1961
City
Minneapolis
League History
1961 - Present / National Football League
Team History
1961 - Present / Minnesota Vikings
Nickname
Vikings - The Minnesota Vikings are one of the most iconic teams in the NFL, and their nickname has become synonymous with excellence. But where did this name come from? Let’s dive into how this team got its unique moniker.
Minnesota Vikings Origin
The story starts in 1960, when five businessmen joined forces and brought an NFL franchise to Minneapolis, MN. The group was led by Max Winter and Bill Boyer, who were determined to make a lasting impact on professional football for years to come. After much deliberation over potential names such as “Pioneers” or “Lumberjacks,” they settled on something different: The Minnesota Vikings!
This decision was made not only because it sounded powerful but also due to its cultural significance; Viking mythology is deeply rooted in a Scandinavian culture, which had strong ties throughout Minneapolis at that period (especially among residents). Many prominent figures within the city even began wearing Viking helmets around town after hearing about these plans! This further solidified their commitment to ensuring everyone knew exactly who they would be cheering for- the mighty Minnesota Vikings!
Today it's hard not to think of purple when you hear "Minnesota Vikings." Still, initially, there wasn't any specific color associated with them until 1964, when royal blue became their official hue (it wasn't until 1967 that purple came along). Regardless, all fans can agree that no matter what colors adorn them - nothing beats chanting SKOL while watching your favorite team take down opponents each Sunday during the fall season! So next time you're out sporting your favorite jersey, don't forget why we have our beloved mascot & nickname.
Championship
Super Bowl 0
Stadium
2016 - Present / U.S. Bank Stadium
2014 - 2015 / TCF Bank Stadium
1982 - 2016 / Mall of America Field at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
1961 - 1981 / Metropolitan Stadium
Owner
2005 - Present / Zygi Wilf and family, and Reggie Fowler
1998 - 2005 / Red McCombs
1991 - 1998 / Roger Headrick
1988 - 1991 / Skoglund, Winter, Ridder, Carl Pohlad, and Irwin Jacobs
1976 - 1988 / Skoglund, Winter, and Ridder
1972 - 1976 / Skoglund, Winter, Ridder, and Haugsrud
1961 - 1972 / Bill Boyer, H. P. Skoglund, Max Winter, Bernie Ridder, and Ole Haugsrud
- 1961
- 1982
- 1998
- 2005
- 2016
-
Minnesota Vikings Team Formation
The team was officially named the Minnesota Vikings on September 27, 1960; the name is partly meant to reflect Minnesota’s place as a center of Scandinavian American culture. From the start, the Vikings embraced an energetic marketing program that produced first-year season ticket sales of nearly 26,000 and an average home attendance of 34,586, about 85 percent of Metropolitan Stadium’s ... -
Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome – Vikings
As the stadium was designed first and foremost for the Minnesota Vikings, they had the fewest problems. However, the economics of 21st century professional sports meant that the Vikings owners wanted more luxury suites and better concessions. Renovations were rejected twice, with the 2001 price tag at $269 million. The Vikings played their first game at the Metrodome in a ... -
Red McCombs Owner
In 1998, Red McCombs bought the Minnesota Vikings for US$250 million. After an unsuccessful attempt to replace the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, McCombs sold the team to new owner Zygi Wilf before the 2005 football season. -
Zygi Wilf Owner
Wilf and five partners purchased the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League from Red McCombs in 2005 for a reported US$600 million. Forbes estimates the 2014 value of the franchise at US$1.007 billion or 21st of the 32 NFL teams. For several years the Vikings and Wilf have stated that their former home, the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome was ... -
U.S. Bank Stadium Opens
U.S. Bank Stadium is a fixed-roof stadium located in the Downtown East section of Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States, on the former site of Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. U.S. Bank Stadium serves as the home of the Minnesota Vikings of the National Football League (NFL) and the Minnesota Golden Gophers Baseball Team (NCAA). The Vikings played at the Metrodome from 1982 ...
To qualify as the greatest player for this team, the player must have played one season for this team. If not, we will remove the player.
* verifies that player has played for this team as an added player by a fan.
Minnesota Vikings History
The Minnesota Vikings history began in 1961 when the team joined the league as an expansion franchise. Since then, they have become one of the most recognized teams in the Minnesota Vikings NFL, known for their passionate fan base and iconic players who shaped the game.
The franchise was founded by Max Winter and Bill Boyer to bring professional football to Minneapolis–St. Paul. In their first season, they finished with a 7-7 record under rookie quarterback Fran Tarkenton. Soon after, the team reached Super Bowl IV but fell to the Kansas City Chiefs. Despite the loss, the Vikings quickly earned respect as a rising contender.
Throughout the Minnesota Vikings history, legends such as Fran Tarkenton, Alan Page, and Carl Eller created a tradition of excellence. The team built one of the fiercest defenses of its era, famously nicknamed the “Purple People Eaters.” Players like Cris Carter and Randy Moss later carried on that tradition, becoming Hall of Fame inductees and solidifying the Vikings’ reputation.
Minnesota Vikings Achievements
In terms of achievements, the Vikings have won multiple division titles and made numerous playoff appearances. They reached four Super Bowls in the 1970s, though a championship has remained elusive. Still, their consistency in the Minnesota Vikings NFL has made them one of the league’s most respected teams.
Today, the franchise continues to compete at a high level. Led by stars like Kirk Cousins, Justin Jefferson, and Danielle Hunter, the Vikings aim to add a Lombardi Trophy to their legacy. The Minnesota Vikings history proves they are a team built on resilience, success, and unforgettable moments in football.
Sports Fan Products
Vikings Fans Showdown Mount Rushmore for NFL Supremacy
In an exhilarating fandom display, Vikings fans gathered to debate and determine their ultimate "Mount Rushmore" of NFL supremacy, showcasing the most iconic players in Minnesota Vikings history. This lively showdown brings together passionate supporters who passionately advocate for legendary figures such as Fran Tarkenton, the dynamic quarterback whose elusiveness redefined the position, and Alan Page, the formidable defensive tackle whose dominance on the field earned him a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Retired Number
10 / Fran Tarkenton
53 / Mick Tingelhoff
70 / Jim Marshall
77 / Korey Stringer
80 / Cris Carter
88 / Alan Page
*Blue is this team’s history