Paul Krause
The Viking who redefined the safety position with an untouchable interception record.
Paul Krause stands as one of the most dominant defensive players in National Football League history, synonymous with the Minnesota Vikings franchise. A safety known for his exceptional ball skills and longevity, he spent his entire playing career in purple from 1962 to 1978. His legacy is defined by a record-breaking number of interceptions that stood for decades.
- role
- Safety
- team
- Minnesota Vikings
- years_active
- 1962-1978
- interceptions_record
- 81 Career Interceptions (NFL Record)
- pro_bowls
- 10 Selections
- hall_of_fame
- Pro Football Hall of Fame (2005)
Lore & Background
Beyond his playmaking ability, Krause was revered for his durability and consistency. Playing through injuries when others would have sat out, he anchored the Vikings' defense during some of its most successful eras. His professionalism set a standard for future generations of defensive backs who looked to Minnesota as a blueprint for secondary excellence.
In Their Own Story
The wind howled off the frozen tundra at Metropolitan Stadium in late November, 1967. The crowd was a sea of purple and gold, breath visible in the cold air. Paul Krause adjusted his helmet, eyes locked on the quarterback's stance. He didn't need to see the ball; he knew where it would go. As the pass spiraled through the icy air, Krause stepped into its path, snatching victory from the jaws of defeat with a single, silent motion.
Reader's Guide
Paul Krause joined the Vikings in 1962 after being drafted by Washington and traded immediately, remaining with Minnesota until his retirement in 1978. He holds the NFL record for career interceptions with 81, a feat that highlighted his extraordinary longevity and skill. During his tenure, he was selected to ten Pro Bowls and earned multiple All-Pro honors, cementing his status as an elite defender of the 1960s and 70s. His signature play involved reading offensive formations and breaking on the ball with precise timing rather than relying solely on speed. After retiring as a player, Krause briefly served as a defensive backs coach for the Vikings, passing his knowledge to the next generation. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005, recognizing his immense contribution to the sport and the franchise's identity.
Did You Know?
- Paul Krause holds the NFL all-time record for career interceptions (81).
- He spent his entire 17-year playing career with the Minnesota Vikings.
- Krause was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
- He earned ten Pro Bowl selections during his tenure in purple.