Minnesota Vikings legend Jim Marshall has passed away, the team announced Tuesday. He was 87 years old.
The organization made a statement minutes ago ... saying it is mourning the loss of the defensive end -- who set several NFL records during his 20-year career.
"He gave everything he had at every step," the org. said, "fostering a Vikings identity hallmarked by a relentless pursuit that took the team from fledgling to formidable."
"It's why if you ask anyone who has worn the Purple, he'll tell you the epic story of the Vikings -- and the NFL -- simply cannot be written without including Marshall's contributions.