MINNEAPOLIS -- Jerry Burns, the colorful character who took over as the Minnesota Vikings' coach in a time of turmoil and led the team to three playoff berths, has died. He was 94.
The team announced Burns' death. Vikings spokesman Bob Hagan said Burns' son-in-law informed him of Burns' death Wednesday morning.
Burns helped the Green Bay Packers win the first two Super Bowls as defensive backs coach, then joined iconic Vikings coach Bud Grant as Minnesota's offensive coordinator in 1968. Burns held the position until 1985 and became head coach in 1986, following Les Steckel's 3-13 season in 1984 and Grant's 7-9 campaign in 1985 when he was coaxed out of retirement.