Minnesota Vikings: 10 best fourth-round draft picks of all-time

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN – DECEMBER 17: Fans hold up signs spelling ‘SKOL’ in the third quarter of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /

6. Jim Hough, guard – 1978

Any time a player can spend nine seasons with the same team, that’s one heck of an accomplishment. In a league where players are replaced for almost any reason, putting together a career by locking down an important role can be a massive challenge.

Jim Hough accomplished that quite well after being a fourth-round pick out of Utah State in the 1978 NFL Draft. Known for his strength, Hough participated in the 1982 World’s Strongest Man competition and often showcased that power on the offensive line.

Playing in 111 games for the Minnesota Vikings, Hough got the starting nod 75 times and locked down that left guard spot to protect the blindside of his quarterback. However, his real strength (pardon the pun) was his power in creating holes in the running game.

Finding an offensive lineman this late in the draft who can be such a big part of the team for so long has to be considered a huge success for the Vikings, even though he never was named to a Pro Bowl or an All-Pro team.

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