Jim Marshall may be best remembered for running the wrong way, but the former Minnesota Vikings standout defensive lineman did so much more than that. Marshall, one of the most memorable members of the Vikings famous “Purple People Eaters” defense that led them to four Super Bowls in the 1970s,

Former Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jim Marshall has died after a long hospitalization for an undisclosed illness. He was 87.

Legendary Minnesota Vikings defensive lineman Jim Marshall, who holds the NFL record for most seasons played by a defender, died Tuesday at the age of 87, Minnesota announced. Marshall spent 20 seasons in the NFL and made 270 consecutive starts with the Vikings from 1961-79.