
THE Minnesota Vikings have mourned the death of a longtime former coach at the age of 91.
The Vikings paid tribute to an ex-member who spent 40 years in a variety of roles with the organization.
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Minnesota Vikings players lined up for a kickoff during a 2024 gameCredit: Getty
The Vikings’ late longtime former coach and scout Paul Wiggin in a 2002 photoCredit: Getty
On Saturday, the Vikings shared the passing of longtime assistant coach and personnel executive Paul Wiggin.
He died on Friday at age 91.
Vikings owners Mark and Zygi Wilf released a statement, saying, “We are tremendously saddened by the passing of longtime Minnesota Vikings coach, scout, and respected NFL figure Paul Wiggin.
“Paul’s impact on the game of football spanned decades.”
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Wiggin first played in the NFL, where he spent all 11 seasons with the Cleveland Browns.
He earned two Pro Bowl nods and helped the team win the 1964 NFL championship.
Wiggin then began coaching in 1968.
He coached multiple NFL teams and even his alma mater, Stanford, over 16 years.
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But Wiggin’s longest football connection was his four decades with the Vikings.
From 1985 to 1991, he was the team’s defensive line coach and helped develop future Hall of Famers Chris Doleman and John Randle.
Wiggins left the sidelines job in 1992 to take on other roles in the personnel department.
“We had the honor of meeting Paul when we purchased the team in 2005, and it quickly became clear how much he loved the Minnesota Vikings,” the Wilf family ownership group continued.
“He captivated staff members and us with his stories about the history of the franchise and the NFL.
“He cared about players, coaches and staff, and he wanted nothing more than to win a Super Bowl for Vikings fans.
Then-Stanford football coach Wiggin looks on during a game on September 12, 1981Credit: Getty
“… Our thoughts are with the Wiggin family and all those who had the privilege of knowing and working with Paul.
“His contributions to the Vikings legacy and to the game of football will long be remembered.”
Wiggin leaves behind his wife, Carolynn, his three daughters, and his grandchildren.