Jim Finks transformed struggling football franchises into legendary powerhouses, building iconic rosters like the Minnesota Vikings’ “Purple People Eaters” and securing his permanent place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Football Bio
August 31, 1927 – Jim Finks, a former defensive back and quarterback for the University of Tulsa, was born. [Source]
The Pittsburgh Steelers drafted him in the 12th round of the 1949 NFL draft, and he played in Pittsburgh until 1955, when he retired.
His big contribution to football came as an executive. He served as an assistant coach at Notre Dame.
Then he moved into the Canadian Football League as the Calgary Stampeders’ general manager, where he helped turn the team around and back into its winning ways.
In 1964, he returned to the National Football League as the general manager of the Minnesota Vikings. He helped ignite the franchise, leading it to four Super Bowl appearances in 14 seasons as he built the Purple People Eaters.
He later spent time with the Bears and the Saints front offices. The Pro Football Hall of Fame recognized his talents and placed him in its Museum of Legends in Canton, Ohio.
Jim Finks revolutionized NFL front offices by consistently turning losing teams into championship contenders. His remarkable eye for talent left an indelible mark on multiple franchises and forever enshrined him among professional football’s greatest executives. [ProFootballHOF.com]
Accolades and Football Accomplishments
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995.
- Named NFL Executive of the Year in 1973 with the Minnesota Vikings and again in 1987 with the New Orleans Saints.
- Selected to the Pro Bowl as a player in 1952.
- Led the NFL in passing touchdowns (tied with Otto Graham) during the 1952 season and finished first in passing yards in 1955.
- Built the iconic “Purple People Eaters” defense as General Manager of the Minnesota Vikings, guiding the team to four Super Bowl appearances.
- Inducted into both the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame and the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor.
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