History of Minnesota Vikings in Timeline
The Minnesota Vikings, founded in 1960, are a professional American football team based in Minneapolis. They compete in the NFL as part of the NFC North division. Their name reflects Minnesota's strong Scandinavian American heritage. The team's home games are played at U.S. Bank Stadium in downtown Minneapolis.
August 1959: AFL Franchise Awarded
In August 1959, a group of Minnesota businessmen were initially awarded a franchise in the new American Football League (AFL).
January 1960: Switching to the NFL
Facing pressure from the NFL, the ownership group decided to join the National Football League instead, becoming the 14th franchise in January 1960.
September 27, 1960: The Vikings Are Christened
The Minnesota Vikings were officially given their name, a nod to the region's Scandinavian heritage, on September 27, 1960.
1960: Birth of the Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings were officially founded in 1960 as an expansion team in the National Football League (NFL).
January 18, 1961: Van Brocklin Takes the Helm
Norm Van Brocklin, fresh off a championship win with the Philadelphia Eagles, was appointed as the Minnesota Vikings' first head coach on January 18, 1961.
1961: Vikings and Packers Rivalry Kicks Off
The rivalry between the Vikings and Green Bay Packers commenced in 1961, coinciding with the Vikings' inaugural season.
1961: Vikings and Bears Rivalry Begins
The rivalry between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears began in 1961 when the Vikings joined the league.
1961: Vikings and Lions Begin Regular Season Meetings
The Vikings and Lions began playing each other twice a year starting in 1961 when the Vikings entered the league.
1961: Minnesota Vikings Join the NFL
The Minnesota Vikings, an expansion team, officially began playing in the National Football League in 1961.
1961: Vikings Kick Off
The Minnesota Vikings, after joining the NFL, began their inaugural season in 1961.
1961: First Home at Metropolitan Stadium
The Minnesota Vikings played their inaugural season in 1961 at Metropolitan Stadium, which would be their home for two decades.
1961: A Promising Start and a Difficult First Season
The Minnesota Vikings kicked off their inaugural season in 1961 with a stunning upset victory against the Chicago Bears, but ultimately struggled, finishing with a 3-11 record.
1961: "Skol, Vikings" Introduced as Fight Song
The Minnesota Vikings introduced "Skol, Vikings" as their fight song around the time of their founding in 1961.
1961: Vikings Debut with Scandinavian-Inspired Logos
The Minnesota Vikings debuted in 1961 with logos reflecting the state's Scandinavian heritage, including a Norseman profile and a Viking horn.
1961: Vikings Begin with a Strong Legacy
Since their first season in 1961, the Minnesota Vikings have consistently been one of the NFL's winningest teams.
1962: A Rare Losing Season
The Minnesota Vikings experienced a rare losing season in 1962, the only time they've won fewer than three games in a season.
1962: Vikings Introduce Purple Pants with White Jerseys
The Minnesota Vikings introduced purple pants as part of their uniform in 1962, pairing them with their white jerseys for a distinctive look.
October 11, 1964: Vikings Accidentally Wear All-Purple for the First Time
On October 11, 1964, a uniform mishap led the Minnesota Vikings to wear their all-purple combination for the first time. Due to the Detroit Lions bringing only their white jerseys, the Vikings changed into their purple jerseys during the game but kept their purple pants.
1964: Vikings Discontinue Regular Use of Purple Pants
After experimenting with purple pants for a couple of seasons, the Minnesota Vikings discontinued their regular use in 1964.
1964: First Winning Season
The Minnesota Vikings achieved their first winning season in 1964, finishing 8-5-1, a sign of the team's growing potential.
1964: First Tuesday Game Since 1964
The Minnesota Vikings' game against the Philadelphia Eagles on December 28, 2010, became the first NFL game played on a Tuesday since 1964, highlighting the unusual circumstances surrounding the Metrodome collapse.
1965: Training at Bemidji State Concludes
The Minnesota Vikings held their last training camp at Bemidji State University in 1965, concluding a five-year tradition.
1965: Max Winter's Tenure as Vikings President Begins
Max Winter, one of the founders of the Minnesota Vikings, began his tenure as the team's president in 1965. His leadership played a pivotal role in the franchise's development.
1966: Moving Training to Mankato
The Vikings moved their summer training camp to Minnesota State University in Mankato in 1966, beginning a long-standing tradition.
February 11, 1967: Van Brocklin Steps Down
Norm Van Brocklin resigned as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings on February 11, 1967, paving the way for Bud Grant's arrival.
March 7, 1967: Tarkenton Departs, Draft Picks Arrive
In a significant trade, the Minnesota Vikings sent quarterback Fran Tarkenton to the New York Giants in exchange for multiple high draft picks on March 7, 1967.
March 10, 1967: Bud Grant Takes Charge
Bud Grant, renowned for his success with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, was appointed as the Minnesota Vikings' head coach on March 10, 1967, ushering in a new era for the franchise.
1968: Jerry Burns Begins Role as Vikings Offensive Coordinator
Jerry Burns embarked on his journey as the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings in 1968, marking the beginning of a successful partnership with the franchise.
1968: The Rise of the Purple People Eaters
Led by their formidable defense, known as the "Purple People Eaters," the Minnesota Vikings clinched their first Central Division title and secured their first playoff berth in 1968.
1969: Vikings Wear NFL 50th Anniversary Patch
The Minnesota Vikings, along with other NFL teams, wore a special patch in 1969 to commemorate the league's 50th anniversary.
1969: Drafting a Future Star
The Minnesota Vikings used one of the draft picks acquired in the Fran Tarkenton trade to select Ed White in 1969, a player who would become a key part of their defense.
1969: Pre-Merger Champions
The Minnesota Vikings secured their first and only NFL Championship in 1969, prior to the league's merger with the AFL.
1969: Vikings Debut Unique Shoulder Stripes on White Uniforms
The Minnesota Vikings introduced a distinctive shoulder stripe pattern on their white uniforms in 1969, marking a notable change in their appearance.
1969: A Dominant Season and Super Bowl Appearance
The Minnesota Vikings dominated the 1969 NFL season, achieving a 12-2 record and winning their first NFL Championship, which earned them a spot in Super Bowl IV, where they ultimately fell to the Kansas City Chiefs.
1969: Vikings Introduce Alternate Purple Jersey for Warm Weather Games
In 1969, the Minnesota Vikings introduced an alternate purple jersey without stripes specifically for games played in warm weather conditions.
1969: Vikings' History of Playoff Matches with Rams
By 1978, the Vikings had a history of playoff encounters with the Los Angeles Rams, having faced them in the postseason in 1969. This history added another layer to their 1978 playoff matchup.
January 4, 1970: Vikings Victorious in Final Pre-Merger Championship
The Minnesota Vikings triumphed over the Cleveland Browns on January 4, 1970, to win the last NFL Championship Game before the merger with the AFL.
1970: Vikings and Lions Move to NFC Central
Both the Vikings and Lions became members of the NFC Central following the AFL-NFL merger in 1970.
1970: Joining the NFC Central
Following the AFL-NFL merger in 1970, the Minnesota Vikings were placed in the newly formed NFC Central division.
1970: Hub Meeds Becomes Unofficial Mascot
In 1970, truck driver Hub Meeds, dressed as a Viking, became an unofficial team mascot after accidentally being let onto the field during Super Bowl IV.
1970: Continued Success in the NFC Central
The Minnesota Vikings maintained their winning ways in 1970, reaching the playoffs after being placed in the newly formed NFC Central division.
1970: Historic Run Defense Since the AFL-NFL Merger
The Minnesota Vikings' achievement of leading the NFL in run defense for three straight seasons (2006-2008) marked the first time any team had accomplished this feat since the AFL-NFL merger in 1970.
1971: Page Makes History as MVP
Alan Page, the defensive star of the Minnesota Vikings, etched his name in NFL history in 1971 by becoming the first defensive player to be named the league's Most Valuable Player.
January 27, 1972: Vikings Reacquire Fran Tarkenton in Trade with Giants
On January 27, 1972, the Minnesota Vikings made a significant trade, sending Norm Snead, Bob Grim, Vince Clements, and first-round draft picks in 1972 and 1973 to the New York Giants. In return, they welcomed back the popular quarterback Fran Tarkenton.
February 19, 1973: Vikings Co-Owner Bill Boyer Passes Away
On February 19, 1973, the Vikings organization experienced a loss with the passing of co-owner Bill Boyer. His son-in-law, Jack Steele, subsequently joined the team's board of directors.
1973: Vikings Reach Super Bowl VIII, Fall to Dolphins
The Minnesota Vikings had a strong 1973 season, achieving a 12-2 record and securing a spot in Super Bowl VIII against the Miami Dolphins. The championship game took place at Rice Stadium in Houston, Texas, where the Dolphins emerged victorious with a score of 24-7.
1973: Vikings Continue to Use Alternate Purple Jersey
The Minnesota Vikings continued to utilize their alternate purple jersey without stripes for warm-weather games until 1973.
1974: Vikings Secure Division Title, Advance to Super Bowl IX
In 1974, the Minnesota Vikings continued their winning ways, securing the Central Division title with a 10-4 record. They demonstrated their strength in cold-weather games during the playoffs, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals (30-14) and the Los Angeles Rams (14-10) at the frigid Metropolitan Stadium. This playoff run led them to their second consecutive Super Bowl appearance.
January 12, 1975: Vikings Concede Super Bowl IX to Steelers
On January 12, 1975, Super Bowl IX unfolded at Tulane Stadium in New Orleans, pitting the Minnesota Vikings against the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers emerged triumphant with a final score of 16-6.
1975: Vikings' Undefeated Streak Ends with Controversial Playoff Loss to Cowboys
The 1975 season saw the Vikings start strong with a 10-0 run, securing another division title. However, their season ended in the playoffs with a 17-14 loss against the Dallas Cowboys. The game was marked by a controversial touchdown pass from Roger Staubach to Drew Pearson, dubbed the "Hail Mary," which sparked debate over a possible uncalled pass interference penalty. The disputed play left fans in disbelief, and the ensuing chaos led to debris, including a whiskey bottle, being thrown onto the field, injuring game official Armen Terzian.
January 9, 1977: Vikings Fall Short in Super Bowl XI Against Raiders
Super Bowl XI took place on January 9, 1977, at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, featuring the Minnesota Vikings and the Oakland Raiders. The Raiders emerged victorious, handing the Vikings a 32-14 loss in their third Super Bowl appearance.
1977: Vikings' Playoff Run Ends with NFC Championship Loss to Cowboys
The Minnesota Vikings maintained their winning form in 1977, claiming the Central Division title with a 9-5 record. Their playoff run led them to their fourth NFC Championship Game in five years. However, they faced defeat against the eventual Super Bowl champions, the Dallas Cowboys, with a final score of 23-6 at Texas Stadium.
1978: Vikings Wear Black Armbands to Honor Jack "Jocko" Nelson
For the final four games of the 1978 season, the Minnesota Vikings donned black armbands as a tribute to assistant coach Jack "Jocko" Nelson, who passed away during the season.
1978: Vikings' Season Ends with Playoff Loss to Rams, Fran Tarkenton Retires
In 1978, the Vikings, facing the challenges of an aging team, still secured a playoff spot with an 8-7-1 record. However, their playoff journey was cut short by the Los Angeles Rams, who defeated them 34-10 in Los Angeles. This marked a change in their rivalry, as the Rams had lost in their previous four playoff encounters. Following the season, quarterback Fran Tarkenton, holding numerous league passing records, announced his retirement.
1978: NFC Championship Drought Begins
The Minnesota Vikings' last appearance in an NFC Championship Game was in 1978, marking the start of a significant drought for the franchise.
December 1979: Groundbreaking Ceremony Marks Start of Metrodome Construction
December 1979 marked a significant moment for the Minnesota Vikings as the groundbreaking ceremony took place for the construction of the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in downtown Minneapolis.
1979: Les Steckel Joins Vikings Coaching Staff
In 1979, Les Steckel joined the Minnesota Vikings' coaching staff as an offensive assistant, marking the beginning of his tenure with the organization.
1980: Vikings Change Face Mask Color from Gray to White
In 1980, the Minnesota Vikings updated their helmets by changing the face mask color from gray to white.
May 15, 1981: Vikings Move to New Facility in Eden Prairie
On May 15, 1981, the Minnesota Vikings celebrated a milestone by moving into their new state-of-the-art facility in suburban Eden Prairie. This complex, named "Winter Park" in honor of Vikings founder and president (1965-1987) Max Winter, housed the team's offices, locker room, and practice fields.
1981: End of an Era at Metropolitan Stadium
The Minnesota Vikings bid farewell to Metropolitan Stadium in 1981 after calling it home for 20 seasons.
August 21, 1982: Vikings Open Metrodome Era with Preseason Win
On August 21, 1982, the Minnesota Vikings ushered in a new era with their first game at the Metrodome, a preseason matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. They emerged victorious with a score of 7-3, marking a successful start to their time in the new facility.
1982: Krazy George Henderson Joins as Cheerleader
Krazy George Henderson joined the Vikings' entertainment team as a cheerleader in 1982.
1982: New Era at the Metrodome
The Minnesota Vikings began playing their home games at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome in Minneapolis in 1982, ushering in a new era for the franchise.
August 6, 1983: Vikings Make History with First International NFL Game in London
August 6, 1983, etched the Minnesota Vikings into NFL history as they participated in the first-ever international game. The Vikings clashed with the St. Louis Cardinals at Wembley Stadium in London, securing a resounding 28-10 victory. This game marked a significant step in expanding the NFL's global reach.
1983: Vikings Last Wore Black Shoes Before 1984 Switch
The 1983 season marked the last time the Minnesota Vikings wore black shoes before transitioning to white shoes the following year.
January 27, 1984: Bud Grant Retires as Vikings Head Coach, Les Steckel Takes the Helm
On January 27, 1984, Bud Grant, after a remarkable tenure leading the Minnesota Vikings, announced his retirement as head coach. His legacy included an impressive regular-season record of 151-87-5 (.632) over 17 seasons, 12 playoff appearances, 11 division titles, and four Super Bowl appearances. Stepping into the role was Les Steckel, a five-season offensive assistant with the Vikings. At 38, Steckel, who joined the Vikings in 1979 after a stint with the 49ers, became the NFL's youngest head coach.
December 18, 1984: Bud Grant Returns from Retirement as Vikings Head Coach
In a surprising turn of events, on December 18, 1984, Bud Grant came out of retirement to resume his role as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings. This decision followed a challenging season under Les Steckel's leadership.
1984: Vikings Transition to White Shoes Under Coach Les Steckel
Under the guidance of head coach Les Steckel, the Minnesota Vikings embraced a significant uniform change in 1984, switching from black shoes to white shoes, becoming the last NFL team to do so.
1985: Vikings Switch to Purple Face Masks
The Minnesota Vikings continued to experiment with their helmet design in 1985 by changing the face mask color from white to purple.
1985: Krazy George Henderson's Time with Vikings Ends
After three seasons, Krazy George Henderson's tenure as a Vikings cheerleader concluded in 1985.
1985: Vikings Celebrate 25 Years with Jersey Patch
The Minnesota Vikings commemorated their 25th anniversary in 1985 by wearing a special patch on their jerseys.
1985: Jerry Burns Concludes Tenure as Vikings Offensive Coordinator
In 1985, Jerry Burns concluded his long and successful tenure as the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings. His leadership played a key role in the team's offensive achievements during his time with the organization.
January 6, 1986: Bud Grant Retires Permanently, Jerry Burns Named Vikings Head Coach
Following the 1985 NFL season, Bud Grant made the decision to permanently retire as head coach of the Minnesota Vikings on January 6, 1986. His illustrious career included the sixth-best winning record in NFL history at the time, with 168 career wins (including playoffs). Grant's legacy with the Vikings spanned 18 seasons, during which he led the team to a 158-96-5 regular-season record. The following day, January 7, 1986, Jerry Burns, a longtime Vikings assistant coach, was named the fourth head coach in the team's history.
January 7, 1986: Jerry Burns Appointed as Vikings' Fourth Head Coach
After serving as the offensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings from 1968 to 1985, Jerry Burns was promoted to the position of head coach on January 7, 1986. During his time as offensive coordinator, the Vikings celebrated 11 division titles and reached four Super Bowls.
August 2, 1986: Fran Tarkenton Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame
On August 2, 1986, Fran Tarkenton, a legendary quarterback who spent a significant portion of his career with the Minnesota Vikings, received one of football's highest honors—induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
1987: Max Winter's Tenure as Vikings President Ends
After serving as president of the Minnesota Vikings since 1965, Max Winter's tenure came to an end in 1987. His contributions to the franchise left a lasting impact.
1987: Vikings Overcome Strike-Shortened Season, Pull Off Playoff Upsets
The 1987 NFL season was marked by a player strike, creating unique challenges for teams. Despite these obstacles, the Minnesota Vikings finished the season with an 8-7 record (8-4 in regular games, 0-3 with replacement players) and made an impressive playoff run. They pulled off two upsets, first defeating the favored New Orleans Saints (12-3) with a resounding 44-10 victory in the Wild Card round at the Louisiana Superdome. The following week, they triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers (13-2) with a 36-24 win at Candlestick Park in the Divisional Playoff game.
January 17, 1988: Vikings' Championship Aspirations Dashed in NFC Championship Loss to Redskins
On January 17, 1988, the Minnesota Vikings faced off against the Washington Redskins in the NFC Championship Game at RFK Stadium. Despite a valiant effort, their Super Bowl dreams were shattered as they fell short with a final score of 17-10. The game's final moments were particularly heartbreaking for Vikings fans as a dropped pass in the end zone sealed their fate.
October 12, 1989: Vikings Acquire Herschel Walker in Blockbuster Trade
On October 12, 1989, the Minnesota Vikings executed a massive trade with the Dallas Cowboys, acquiring running back Herschel Walker. The Vikings sent multiple players and draft picks to Dallas, including those that would become key players for the Cowboys' Super Bowl-winning teams in the 1990s.
1989: Vikings Honor 1969 NFL Championship Team with Patch
In 1989, the Minnesota Vikings paid tribute to their 1969 NFL championship team by wearing a "40 for 60" patch on their jerseys.
1990: Last-Place Finish Since 1990
The Minnesota Vikings' disappointing 2010 season resulted in a last-place finish in the NFC North, a low point for the team not experienced since 1990.
December 3, 1991: Jerry Burns Announces Retirement
On December 3, 1991, Jerry Burns, head coach of the Minnesota Vikings, announced his retirement, effective at the season's end. Burns's tenure included three playoff appearances and one NFC Championship Game appearance.
1992: Hub Meeds' Tenure as Unofficial Mascot Ends
After 22 years, Hub Meeds' time as the unofficial Vikings mascot came to an end in 1992.
1994: Ragnar Becomes Team Mascot
Joseph Juranitch, known as Ragnar, became the official Vikings mascot in 1994, portraying a character inspired by Ragnar Lodbrok.
1994: Vikings Wear NFL 75th Anniversary Patch
The Minnesota Vikings, along with other NFL teams, marked the league's 75th anniversary in 1994 by wearing a commemorative patch.
1994: Vikings and Bears First Postseason Matchup
The Vikings and Bears met in the postseason for the first time in 1994, with the Bears winning in the Wild Card Round.
1995: Vikings Mark 35 Years with Jersey Patch
The Minnesota Vikings celebrated their 35th anniversary in 1995 by wearing a commemorative patch on their jerseys.
1995: Vikings Maintain Consistent Logos and Uniforms
Until 1995, the Minnesota Vikings maintained their original logos and uniforms with minimal changes, showcasing their commitment to their Scandinavian-inspired branding.
1995: Vikadontis Rex Participates in Mascot Olympics
Vikadontis Rex, a purple foam dinosaur and mascot for the Minnesota Vikings Children's Fund, participated in the 1995 Celebrity Mascot Olympics.
1996: Vikings Add Norseman Logo to Sleeves and Move TV Numbers
In 1996, the Minnesota Vikings made significant changes to their uniforms, adding the Norseman logo to the sleeves, moving the TV numbers from the sleeves to the shoulders, and modifying the purple jersey stripes.
1998: Vikings Set Scoring Record but Suffer Overtime Heartbreak in NFC Championship
The 1998 Minnesota Vikings, led by a high-powered offense, achieved an impressive 15-1 regular season record and set a then-NFL record for points scored. However, their season ended in a disappointing overtime loss to the Atlanta Falcons in the NFC Championship game.
1998: Best Record Since 1998
The Minnesota Vikings concluded the 2009 season with their most successful record (12-4) since their notable 1998 campaign.
1999: Vikings Honor Coach Chip Myers with Patch
The Minnesota Vikings paid tribute to assistant coach Chip Myers, who passed away in the offseason, by wearing a commemorative patch on their jerseys during the 1999 season.
1999: Vikings Fall to Rams in Divisional Round Shootout
The 1999 Vikings, after a quarterback change during the season, made the playoffs but lost in the Divisional Round to the eventual Super Bowl champion St. Louis Rams. The high-scoring game marked the end of Minnesota's season.
2000: Vikings Suffer Historic Loss in NFC Championship
The 2000 Minnesota Vikings, after a strong 11-5 season, suffered a crushing 41-0 defeat to the New York Giants in the NFC Championship game, marking their worst playoff loss in history. Running back Robert Smith retired after the season.
2000: Vikings Celebrate 40 Years with Jersey Patch
The Minnesota Vikings reached a significant milestone in 2000, marking their 40th anniversary with a special patch on their jerseys.
2000: Vikings End Playoff Drought, Achieve Best Record Since 2000
The Minnesota Vikings' 2009 season marked their best record (12-4) since 2000 and their first NFC Championship appearance in a decade.
2000: Vikadontis Rex Retired
The Vikings retired Vikadontis Rex, the purple foam dinosaur mascot, starting with the 2000 season.
2001: Dennis Green Era Ends; Mike Tice Takes Over
After a disappointing 5-11 season in 2001, the Vikings parted ways with long-time head coach Dennis Green. Mike Tice was appointed as the new head coach, marking a significant transition for the franchise.
2001: Vikings Struggle After NFC Championship Appearance
After a strong start to the decade, the Vikings struggled in 2001, posting a disappointing 5-11 record. This marked a downturn for the team after their recent playoff successes.
2001: Vikings Remember Korey Stringer with Jersey Patch
In 2001, the Minnesota Vikings honored the memory of Korey Stringer by wearing a special patch on their jerseys.
2002: Vikings Join NFC North in Realignment
In 2002, the NFL underwent a realignment, and the Minnesota Vikings were placed in the newly formed NFC North division, along with their traditional NFC Central rivals.
2002: Paul Allen Begins as Play-by-Play Announcer
Paul Allen took on the role of play-by-play announcer for the Minnesota Vikings starting in the 2002 NFL season.
2002: Vikings and Lions Become NFC North Rivals
The Vikings and Lions continued their rivalry within the newly formed NFC North after the NFL's realignment in 2002.
2003: Vikings Suffer Heartbreaking Playoff Miss
The 2003 Vikings narrowly missed the playoffs after a heartbreaking loss to the Arizona Cardinals in the final game of the season. This marked a disappointing end to a promising season for Minnesota.
2003: Adrian Peterson's Breakout Rookie Season
In 2003, Adrian Peterson began his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, making a splash with a 60-yard touchdown reception in his very first game. He went on to set a then-record for single-game all-purpose yards (361) against the Chicago Bears and broke the single-game rushing record with 296 yards against the San Diego Chargers.
2004: Culpepper Shines as Vikings Reach Divisional Round
In 2004, quarterback Daunte Culpepper had a standout season, leading the Vikings to the playoffs and a memorable victory over the Green Bay Packers in the Wild Card round. The Vikings' season ended in the Divisional Round with a loss to the eventual NFC Champion Philadelphia Eagles.
2004: Vikings Return to Playoffs
In 2004, the Minnesota Vikings returned to the playoffs after a period of absence. This marked a positive turn for the team after a few challenging seasons.
March 2, 2005: Vikings Trade Randy Moss to Raiders
On March 2, 2005, the Minnesota Vikings traded star wide receiver Randy Moss to the Oakland Raiders, marking the end of an era for the franchise. The Vikings also endured a season-ending injury to quarterback Daunte Culpepper during the 2005 season, leading to significant changes for the team.
2005: Mike Tice Fired; Brad Childress Hired
Following the 2005 season, the Minnesota Vikings made a coaching change, firing Mike Tice and hiring Brad Childress as his replacement.
2005: Vikings Commemorate 45 Years with Jersey Patch
In 2005, the Minnesota Vikings celebrated their 45th anniversary by wearing a commemorative patch on their jerseys.
2006: Vikings Redesign Uniforms with Trim Lines and Updated Helmet
In 2006, the Minnesota Vikings undertook a significant redesign of their uniforms, incorporating trim lines, updating the helmet horn, and introducing both white and purple pants.
2006: Vikings Update Helmet Logo and Switch to Black Shoes
In 2006, the Vikings made minor changes to their uniform, including a slightly redesigned horn logo on the helmet and a return to black shoes after using white shoes for several seasons.
2006: Rise of the Vikings' Dominant Run Defense
Starting in 2006, the Minnesota Vikings became known for their formidable run defense, spearheaded by defensive tackles Kevin Williams and Pat Williams, known as the "Williams Wall." They led the NFL in run defense for an unprecedented three consecutive seasons (2006-2008).
2006: Vikings Draft Adrian Peterson
The Minnesota Vikings, after a 6-10 season, held the 7th overall pick in the 2006 NFL Draft and selected running back Adrian Peterson from the University of Oklahoma, marking the beginning of a new era for the franchise.
December 17, 2007: Vikings Intentionally Wear All-Purple for the First Time
The Minnesota Vikings made a deliberate decision to wear their all-purple uniform combination for the first time on December 17, 2007, during a Monday Night Football matchup against the Chicago Bears.
2007: Vikings' Run Defense Continues to Dominate
The Minnesota Vikings' run defense maintained its dominance in 2007, leading the NFL for the second consecutive year. This consistent excellence solidified the reputation of the "Williams Wall."
2007: Vikings' Gjallarhorn Debuts
The Vikings' Gjallarhorn tradition began in 2007, incorporating the sounding of a Gjallarhorn into pre-game ceremonies.
2007: Pete Bercich Joins as Analyst
Pete Bercich joined the Minnesota Vikings radio broadcast team as an analyst in 2007.
2007: Viktor the Viking Introduced as Mascot
The Minnesota Vikings introduced Viktor the Viking as their official mascot in 2007, aiming to appeal to younger fans.
2007: Vikings Reduce Use of Purple Pants
Following their introduction in 2006, the Minnesota Vikings' use of purple pants decreased in 2007.
2007: Favre's Time with the Packers
Brett Favre's tenure with the Green Bay Packers, which lasted until 2007, made his signing with the Minnesota Vikings particularly noteworthy for both teams and their fans.
2008: Brett Favre's Text Message Controversy Resurfaces
Adding to the challenges of the 2010 season, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Brett Favre faced an NFL investigation regarding allegations of sending inappropriate text messages to a New York Jets employee during his time with the team in 2008.
2008: Record-Setting Pass Play
During a 2008 game against the Chicago Bears, Minnesota Vikings quarterback Gus Frerotte connected with Bernard Berrian for a 99-yard touchdown, establishing a new franchise record for the longest play.
2008: Previous Cable Viewership Record Broken
The Minnesota Vikings' victory over the Green Bay Packers in 2009, featuring Brett Favre, surpassed the previous cable television viewership record set by a game between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys in 2008.
2008: Arrival of Jared Allen Strengthens Vikings' Defense
With the addition of star defensive end Jared Allen, the Minnesota Vikings' defensive line, anchored by the "Williams Wall," earned the nicknames "Thunder and Plunder" and "Shock and AWE." This formidable unit continued its reign as the NFL's top-ranked run defense for the third straight year.
January 4, 2009: Vikings Fall to Eagles in Wild Card Round
On January 4, 2009, the Minnesota Vikings, playing in their first home playoff game in eight years, lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Wild Card round.
August 18, 2009: Brett Favre Joins the Vikings
On August 18, 2009, the Minnesota Vikings made a significant move by signing veteran quarterback Brett Favre, who had previously played 16 seasons for their division rivals, the Green Bay Packers.
October 5, 2009: Favre Defeats All 32 Teams and Sets Viewership Record
On October 5, 2009, Brett Favre achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first quarterback in NFL history to defeat all 32 current teams as a starter, doing so with a win against his former team, the Green Bay Packers. This game also set a cable television viewership record.
2009: Adrian Peterson's Rushing Title and Vikings Clinch NFC North
Adrian Peterson claimed the NFL rushing title with 1,760 yards, setting a new franchise record for the Minnesota Vikings. The team secured the NFC North championship for the first time in their history with a victory against the New York Giants.
2009: NFC Championship Game
The Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints faced off in the 2009 NFC Championship game, adding to their growing rivalry.
January 17, 2010: Vikings Advance to NFC Championship
On January 17, 2010, the Minnesota Vikings defeated the Dallas Cowboys, securing their place in the NFC Championship game for the first time since the 2000 season.
November 7, 2010: Vikings Wear All-Purple Uniforms Again
The Minnesota Vikings opted for their all-purple uniform combination once again on November 7, 2010, for their home game against the Arizona Cardinals.
December 19, 2010: Vikings Announce Top 50 Players
On December 19, 2010, as part of their 50th anniversary celebration, the Vikings revealed a list of the franchise's 50 greatest players.
December 28, 2010: Metrodome Collapse and Game Disruptions
Due to a significant snowstorm that caused the Metrodome roof to collapse, the Minnesota Vikings had to relocate their December 12, 2010, game against the New York Giants to Ford Field in Detroit. Subsequent games were also affected, including a December 28 game against the Philadelphia Eagles, which marked the first NFL game played on a Tuesday since 1964.
2010: Vikings Reintroduce Purple Pants for Select Games
After a period of limited use, the Minnesota Vikings reintroduced purple pants for a couple of games in 2010.
2010: Prince Records "Purple and Gold" for Vikings
Minneapolis native Prince recorded the song "Purple and Gold" in 2010 as a fight song for the Minnesota Vikings.
2010: Vikings Experience Ups and Downs in 2010
The 2010 season was a rollercoaster for the Minnesota Vikings. They faced the defending Super Bowl champions, the New Orleans Saints, in the opening game, traded for and later waived wide receiver Randy Moss, and experienced a coaching change with the firing of Brad Childress.
2010: Vikings' Disappointing Season and Off-Field Issues
The Minnesota Vikings' 2010 season was marred by a last-place finish in the NFC North, the first since 1990, and various off-field distractions.
January 3, 2011: Leslie Frazier Named Head Coach
On January 3, 2011, Leslie Frazier was officially appointed as the head coach of the Minnesota Vikings after a period as interim head coach. He signed a three-year contract.
January 17, 2011: Brett Favre Retires
Brett Favre announced his retirement from professional football for the third and final time on January 17, 2011, leaving the Vikings without a long-term quarterback.
2011: KFAN Becomes Vikings' Flagship Radio Station
In 2011, KFXN-FM (100.3), branded as "KFAN," became the Minnesota Vikings' primary radio station after a format switch with 1130 AM.
2012: Vikings Reach Playoffs, Adrian Peterson Wins MVP
The Minnesota Vikings reached the playoffs in 2012 for the 27th time in their history. Key players like Matt Kalil, Harrison Smith, and Blair Walsh contributed to their success. Despite losing in the wildcard round to the Packers, Adrian Peterson was named league MVP for his impressive 2,097 rushing yards.
February 14, 2013: Vikings Unveil Tweaked Norseman Logo
On February 14, 2013, the Minnesota Vikings introduced a refreshed Norseman logo, featuring subtle enhancements to the shading, horns, mustache, face, gold tones, and braid.
April 25, 2013: Vikings Reveal New Uniforms at NFL Draft Party
The Minnesota Vikings unveiled their new uniforms during their annual NFL Draft party on April 25, 2013, generating excitement among fans.
December 29, 2013: Vikings Bid Farewell to the Metrodome
The Minnesota Vikings played their final game at the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome on December 29, 2013, marking the end of an era for the team and the stadium.
2013: Vikings' Performance in the 2010s
Following the 2013 season, the Minnesota Vikings, despite inconsistency at the quarterback position, saw an uptick in their regular-season performance during the 2010s.
2013: Vikings Struggle, Frazier Fired
The Vikings struggled in 2013, finishing with a 5-10-1 record and failing to win a single road game. Notably, their defense gave up a league-worst 480 points. This marked the end of Leslie Frazier's tenure as head coach, as he was let go following the season.
2013: Vikings Fans Vote for Best Metrodome Players
In 2013, the Vikings held a fan vote to determine the top players at each position during their time at the Metrodome, honoring the stadium's final season.
January 16, 2014: Mike Zimmer Becomes Head Coach
The Vikings appointed Mike Zimmer as their new head coach on January 16, 2014, replacing Leslie Frazier.
April 16, 2015: Adrian Peterson Reinstated
After being placed on the Commissioner's Exempt List due to a child abuse trial, Adrian Peterson was reinstated by the NFL on April 16, 2015.
April 17, 2015: Adrian Peterson Returns to Active Roster
Adrian Peterson was officially reinstated to the Vikings' active roster on April 17, 2015, marking his return to the team.
2015: Vikings Part Ways with Ragnar
The Vikings and Joseph Juranitch, who portrayed Ragnar, failed to reach a new contract agreement, leading to his release in 2015.
January 3, 2016: Vikings Win NFC North
The Minnesota Vikings triumphed over their divisional rivals, the Green Bay Packers, with a score of 20-13 on January 3, 2016. This victory secured their first NFC North title since 2009.
2016: Skol Chant Adopted by Vikings Fans
Vikings fans adopted the Skol Chant at U.S. Bank Stadium in 2016, inspired by the Viking War Cry popularized by Iceland's national football team.
2016: Original Gjallarhorn Breaks
The original Vikings' Gjallarhorn broke before a playoff game in 2016 due to extremely cold temperatures.
2016: Moritz Böhringer Makes History
The Vikings made history in the 2016 NFL draft by selecting German wide receiver Moritz Böhringer. This marked the first time an NFL team drafted a European player who had never played football in North America.
2016: Vikings Debut "Color Rush" Uniforms
In 2016, the NFL introduced "Color Rush" uniforms, and the Vikings sported an all-purple look with gold accents for Thursday Night Football games.
February 28, 2017: Vikings Decline Adrian Peterson's Option, Making Him a Free Agent
On February 28, 2017, the Vikings made the decision to decline the contract option for Adrian Peterson, making him a free agent. This decision saved the team a significant amount of money, as Peterson was set to earn $18 million in 2017.
April 25, 2017: Adrian Peterson Joins New Orleans Saints
Adrian Peterson's time with the Vikings ended on April 25, 2017, when he signed a two-year, $7 million contract with the New Orleans Saints after becoming a free agent. Peterson's departure concluded his impressive run with the Vikings, which began in 2007. He left behind a legacy as a record-holding running back for the franchise.
2017: NFC Divisional Round Game
In 2017, the Vikings and the Saints met again in a significant playoff game, this time in the NFC Divisional Round, further solidifying their rivalry.
2017: Vikings Announce End to Mankato Training Camp Tradition
In 2017, the Vikings ownership decided to end their 52-year tradition of holding summer training camp at Minnesota State University, Mankato.
2017: Vikings Win NFC North, Achieve 'Minneapolis Miracle'
The 2017 season was a remarkable one for the Vikings. They secured the NFC North title for the second time in three years, finishing with a 13-3 record. Their playoff journey was nothing short of incredible, particularly the divisional round game against the New Orleans Saints. Trailing by one point with seconds left, Stefon Diggs scored a game-winning touchdown on a play that became known as the 'Minneapolis Miracle.' Their season ended with a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship.
2017: Vikings Reach NFC Championship
The Minnesota Vikings' improved performance after the 2013 season culminated in an NFC Championship appearance in 2017, highlighting their resilience and competitiveness.
March 15, 2018: Kirk Cousins Signs Record-Breaking Contract
On March 15, 2018, Kirk Cousins inked a groundbreaking three-year contract with the Vikings worth a fully guaranteed $84 million, making him the highest-paid player in NFL history at that time.
2018: Vikings Open New Headquarters and Training Facility
The Vikings opened their new headquarters and training facility in Eagan, Minnesota in 2018, on the site of the former Northwest Airlines offices. This state-of-the-art facility marked a new chapter for the team.
2018: Vikings Pay Tribute to Tony Sparano with Helmet Decals
Throughout the 2018 NFL season, the Minnesota Vikings honored their late offensive-line coach, Tony Sparano, who passed away before the season began, by wearing "TS" decals on their helmets.
2018: "Color Rush" Discontinued, Vikings Adapt Uniforms
With the discontinuation of the "Color Rush" program in 2018, the Vikings repurposed their all-purple uniforms as primary alternates, known as "Primetime Purple."
September 22, 2019: Vikings Secure 500th Franchise Win
The Vikings achieved a significant milestone on September 22, 2019, by securing their 500th franchise win with a victory over the Oakland Raiders. This achievement highlighted the team's rich history and success.
2019: "Primetime Purple" and Uniform Variations Debut
The Vikings debuted their "Primetime Purple" uniforms and also wore an all-purple combination with regular home jerseys and away purple pants in 2019.
2020: Vikings Endure First Losing Season Since 2014
The Vikings experienced a setback in 2020, enduring their first losing season since 2014. This marked only their second losing season under head coach Mike Zimmer.
2020: "Primetime Purple" Worn for Non-Thursday Night Game
The Vikings' "Primetime Purple" uniforms made an appearance during a non-Thursday Night game against the Cowboys in 2020.
2021: Vikings Miss Playoffs for Second Straight Season
The Minnesota Vikings missed the playoffs for the second consecutive season in 2021 after losing to the Green Bay Packers in Week 17. They finished the season with an 8-9 record.
2021: Vikings Suffer Second Consecutive Losing Season
The Vikings faced continued challenges in 2021, experiencing their second consecutive losing season. This marked a difficult period for the team, as they aimed to regain their winning form.
January 10, 2022: Vikings Fire Head Coach Mike Zimmer and General Manager Rick Spielman
On January 10, 2022, the Minnesota Vikings fired head coach Mike Zimmer and general manager Rick Spielman after missing the playoffs for the second straight season.
January 26, 2022: Vikings Hire Kwesi Adofo-Mensah as General Manager
On January 26, 2022, the Minnesota Vikings appointed Kwesi Adofo-Mensah as their new general manager. Adofo-Mensah previously held positions with the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers.
February 13, 2022: Los Angeles Rams Win Super Bowl LVI
The Los Angeles Rams emerged victorious in Super Bowl LVI on February 13, 2022.
December 24, 2022: Vikings Debut All-White Uniforms for "Winter Whiteout"
On December 24, 2022, the Minnesota Vikings wore their all-white uniforms at home for the first time in the regular season as part of a special "Winter Whiteout" event, featuring white-themed decorations and encouraging fans to wear white.
2022: Vikings Introduce "Winter Whiteout" Concept
The Vikings introduced the "Winter Whiteout" concept in 2022, wearing their standard white jerseys and white pants for a game.
2022: Continued Use of "Primetime Purple" and All-Purple Variations
The Vikings continued to wear their "Primetime Purple" uniforms for select games in 2022, including a Thanksgiving Day game. They also wore the all-purple combination with regular home jerseys and away purple pants.
2022: Consistent Success
As of 2022, the Minnesota Vikings have maintained their impressive record, winning at least three games every season except one, demonstrating their enduring strength in the NFL.
December 24, 2023: Vikings Wear All-White Uniforms Again for Home Game
The Minnesota Vikings once again donned their all-white uniforms for a home game on December 24, 2023.
2023: Vikings Unveil Throwback Uniforms Inspired by 1960s Design
In 2023, the Minnesota Vikings introduced throwback uniforms based on the purple uniforms worn in the 1960s, featuring gold trim on the numbers.
2023: Vikings Continue "Winter Whiteout" Tradition
The Vikings continued the "Winter Whiteout" tradition in 2023, wearing their all-white uniform combination for a game.
June 6, 2024: Vikings Introduce New "Winter Warrior" Alternate Uniform
On June 6, 2024, the Minnesota Vikings unveiled their new alternate "Winter Warrior" uniform, featuring an all-white design with purple and silver accents, a new Vikings wordmark, and a matching white helmet with silver trim.
July 25, 2024: Roster Update
The Minnesota Vikings updated their roster on July 25, 2024.