Remembering Joe Kapp: The Life and Legacy of the Former Vikings Quarterback

Joe Kapp, A Football Legend, Dies at 85

Joe Kapp, the former quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings and a football legend, died at the age of 85. Kapp was known for his hard-nosed playing style, which often saw him run into tacklers instead of away from them. He led the Minnesota Vikings to their first Super Bowl in 1969 and took California to its last Rose Bowl in 1959. Kapp’s family reported that he had been suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for the past 15 years and was residing in an assisted living facility. His family plans to send his brain to UC San Francisco researchers for a study of the potential connection between his dementia and the hits he took to the head during his punishing playing style.

Kapp’s Stellar Football Career

Joe Kapp had a remarkable football career, starting with his collegiate years at Cal. After leading Cal to a Pacific Coast Conference title in 1958 and a trip to the Rose Bowl, Kapp went on to star in Canada before eventually making it to the NFL. He took over as quarterback for Fran Tarkenton in Minnesota and led the Vikings to a Super Bowl appearance in the 1969 season.

A Trailblazer and Fierce Advocate for Latino Community

Kapp was a trailblazer as one of the first Mexican-American stars in pro football and remains one of only two Mexican Americans to start as a quarterback in a Super Bowl, along with Jim Plunkett. Kapp was also a fierce advocate for the Latino community and worked with activist Cesar Chavez for farmworker rights. His mother was Mexican-American, and Kapp was proud of his roots and identity throughout his life.

Remembering Kapp’s Legacy

Joe Kapp was a team-first player who inspired his teammates with his toughness and competitive spirit. He coined the mantra “40 for 60,” referencing every player giving his best for all 60 minutes of the game. Kapp was voted Most Valuable Player by the Vikings in 1969 but refused to accept it on the stance that all 40 players on the roster were equally valuable. His legacy on the football field and his contributions to Latino activism will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.

Taking Care of the Heads and Bodies of Football Players

Kapp’s death brings up important questions about the safety of football players and the potential long-term effects of concussions and hits to the head. With Kapp’s family planning to send his brain to UC San Francisco researchers for examination, the NFL and other sports organizations must prioritize the care and health of their players. Improvements in helmet technology and concussion protocols are crucial to preventing long-term damage to football players’ health and well-being.

Final Thoughts

Joe Kapp was a football legend whose hard-nosed playing style and contributions to the Latino community will never be forgotten. His death reminds us of the importance of taking care of the physical and mental health of football players, both during their careers and in their retirement. Kapp’s legacy continues to inspire and motivate players on and off the field. Rest in peace, Joe Kapp.