44 Days: Countdown to the Vikings Season Opener

Chuck Foreman

The Minnesota Vikings season opener is 44 days away. There is a new regime in town, and the team was active in free agency. Fans cannot wait for football to start and are especially excited for the new era of Vikings football.

The most prominent player to ever wear number 44 for the purple and gold is Chuck Foreman. The Miami Gator was drafted 12th overall by the organization in 1973. He spent seven seasons with them before finishing his final season in 1980 with the New England Patriots.

During his time in Minnesota, Foreman was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, NFC Offensive Player of the Year in 1976, a first-team All-Pro in 1975, and a five-time Pro Bowler.

He led the league in receptions during the 1975 season. He was known not just for his great all-around play but also for his shifty moves, which is why he is called “The spin doctor.” Three of the Vikings four Super Bowl appearances were during Foreman’s time with the team.

Chuck Foreman
Chuck Foreman

In 93 career games with Minnesota, Foreman rushed for 5,887 yards and 52 touchdowns. He also caught 336 passes and 23 touchdowns. Only Adrian Peterson (11,747 yards) and Robert Smith (6,818 yards) have rushed for more yards than him in Vikings history. His 52 rushing touchdowns are tied for second best in team history. Peterson ranks first with 97.

When you think of the days when the Vikings played at Metropolitan Stadium, Foreman is definitely among the names that come to mind for fans, along with the likes of Alan Page, Jim Marshall, Carl Eller, Paul Krause, and Fran Tarkenton.

If not for a knee injury in 1978, Foreman could have very well been a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame right now. You can definitely make a strong argument that he should already be in despite only playing in eight seasons.


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