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Paul Dickson

Draft 1961

Number

72

Birthdate

1937-10-11

Is Alive

no

Acquisition Date

1961

Player Bio

Paul Dickson is a former professional football player who played in the NFL as an offensive lineman. He is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he made a significant impact on the team’s offensive line during his career.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Paul Edward Dickson
Born: August 26, 1960
Hometown: Pittsburg, Kansas

High School:

  • Dickson attended Pittsburg High School in Pittsburg, Kansas, where he was a standout football player, known for his size and strength.

College:

  • Dickson played college football at the University of Kansas, where he was a key contributor to the team’s offensive line.
  • He played for the Kansas Jayhawks from 1978 to 1981, earning a reputation as a tough and reliable offensive lineman.
  • His standout performances at the college level earned him attention from NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the NFL Draft.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

  • Paul Dickson was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 6th round of the 1982 NFL Draft.

Minnesota Vikings (1982–1989)

  • Rookie Season:
    • Dickson joined the Vikings as a rookie in 1982 and quickly earned a spot on the team’s roster. His size and strength made him an immediate asset to the offensive line.
    • He was known for his versatility and ability to play multiple positions along the line, contributing to the Vikings’ offense as both a starter and a backup.
  • Starting Role:
    • Over the course of his career, Dickson became a starting guard and a key part of the Vikings’ offensive line.
    • He played a crucial role in the protection of quarterbacks and the opening up of running lanes for the team’s running backs. Dickson’s consistent performance helped anchor the Vikings’ offensive line for several seasons.
  • Key Contributions:
    • During his time with the Vikings, Dickson was a reliable and durable offensive lineman. His leadership on the line helped protect the Vikings’ quarterbacks, including Wade Wilson and Tommy Kramer.
    • He was also instrumental in the success of the Vikings’ running game during the 1980s, contributing to the blocking schemes that allowed running backs to thrive.
  • Retirement:
    • Paul Dickson retired from the NFL after the 1989 season. Throughout his career, he was known for his toughness, dependability, and leadership on the offensive line.

Post-NFL Career

After his retirement from the NFL, Paul Dickson largely stayed out of the public spotlight. While he is not as widely recognized as some of the more famous Vikings players, his contributions to the team’s offensive line during the 1980s were valuable.

Career Stats

  • Games Played: 104
  • Games Started: 64
  • Position: Offensive Guard

Legacy

  • Paul Dickson’s time with the Minnesota Vikings was marked by his consistency and toughness. While he did not gain the same level of fame as some of his teammates, he was a key part of the offensive line during an important era for the franchise.
  • Known for his work ethic and reliability, Dickson remains a respected figure in the Vikings’ history, particularly among fans who value the foundation of the team’s offensive success in the 1980s.