The 30 greatest Minnesota Vikings players of all-time
By Adam Patrick
. LB. (1974-85). Matt Blair. 20. player. 60
All-time Greatest Minnesota Vikings: No. 20 – Matt Blair
Spending 13 seasons with the Vikings after the team used a second-round draft pick on the Iowa State linebacker in 1974, Matt Blair set the standard for outside linebackers with his combination of size, speed, and athleticism.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 232 pounds, Blair was an intimidating force on defense who accumulated 16 interceptions and 20 fumble recoveries in his 160 games played. However, his total number of tackles and sacks are not available because they were not officially recorded statistics at this time.
Blair’s impact on special teams cannot be overlooked. Thanks to his physical ability and hard work, the linebacker is third in NFL history in blocked kicks, deflecting 20 over the course of his career. Fans may remember his blocked punt from Super Bowl XI that resulted in a defensive touchdown for Minnesota.
Still, Blair’s impact was rewarded with six Pro Bowl nods and one All-Pro designation on his way to becoming one of the 50 Greatest Vikings and joining the Vikings Ring of Honor.
– AC