Early 1970s Fran Tarkenton Minnesota Vikings Game-Used Jersey

Fran Tarkenton’s Legendary Jersey: A Testament to NFL Greatness

A Quarterback’s Journey to the Hall of Fame

In the annals of NFL history, few players have left as indelible a mark as Fran Tarkenton. Selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the third round of the 1961 NFL Draft, Tarkenton quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. In his debut game, the rookie quarterback from Georgia stunned the Chicago Bears by throwing four touchdown passes and running for another, setting the stage for a remarkable career that would span 18 seasons.

Standing at 6 feet and weighing 190 pounds, Tarkenton was a relentless field general, amassing an impressive array of records by the time of his retirement. His career statistics are a testament to his prowess: 3,686 completions, 47,003 passing yards, and 342 touchdowns. During his second stint with the Vikings, he led the team to six NFC Central Division titles and three Super Bowl appearances, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

The Jersey: A Piece of NFL History

This extraordinary jersey, worn by Tarkenton, is a piece of football memorabilia that captures the essence of his storied career. The jersey is a purple cold weather heavyweight knit, featuring two Sand-Knit labels on the front left tail—one marked ‘EXCLUSIVE’ and the other indicating the size (44). The player number (10) is prominently painted in white on the front, back, and both sleeves, while the name “TARKENTON” is emblazoned in white tackle twill across a purple nameplate on the back.

• Historical Significance: Worn by Fran Tarkenton, a Hall of Fame quarterback who redefined the position.
• Iconic Design: Features the classic Vikings colors and Tarkenton’s number 10.
• Unique Provenance: Presented to us as game-used, with visible wear including what appears to be blood stains on the right sleeve and sweat stains throughout.
• Condition and Story: The wear and stains tell a story of the grit and determination that characterized Tarkenton’s career.

A Legacy of Excellence

Fran Tarkenton’s impact on the game extends far beyond his impressive statistics. His innovative style of play and leadership on the field have inspired countless players and fans alike. This jersey is not just a piece of fabric; it is a symbol of Tarkenton’s enduring legacy and the indelible mark he left on the NFL.

For collectors and enthusiasts, this jersey represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of sports memorabilia that embodies the spirit of one of football’s greatest legends. Whether you are looking to consign sports memorabilia or explore our extensive collection of NFL items for sale, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.