Full Name: Francis Asbury Tarkenton
Profession: NFL Quarterback
Biography: Fran Tarkenton is a former American football quarterback who played primarily for the Minnesota Vikings, as well as a short stint with the New York Giants. He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and one of the most prolific passers in league history. He led the Vikings to three Super Bowls, although they never secured a championship win.
During his 18-season NFL career, Tarkenton broke multiple records, becoming the all-time leader in pass completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns by the time he retired in 1978. These records would eventually be surpassed, but at the time of his retirement he owned every major quarterback record.
After retiring from professional football, Tarkenton transitioned into a successful career as an entrepreneur and television personality. He co-hosted the television show "That's Incredible!" and founded a software company. Tarkenton was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986, and then the College Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
Born: February 3, 1940
Birthplace: Richmond, Virginia, USA
Age: 84 years old
Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rabbit
Star Sign: Aquarius
Married Life
- 1960-12-22 NFL quarterback Fran Tarkenton (20) weds Anna Elaine Merrell at First Baptist Church in Decatur, Georgia
Historical Events
- 1961-09-17 Fran Tarkenton plays his first NFL Game against the Chicago Bears, coming off the bench to lead the Vikings to a 37-13 victory, also becoming the only QB to throw four touchdown passes in his first career game
- 1965-01-10 15th NFL Pro Bowl, LA Memorial Coliseum: Western Conference beats Eastern Conference, 34-14; MVPs: Fran Tarkenton, Minnesota Vikings, QB; Terry Barr, Detroit Lions, DB
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