Steve Riley is a former NFL player who played as an offensive lineman, specifically as a guard for the Minnesota Vikings. He was part of the team’s offensive line during the late 1960s and early 1970s, contributing to the Vikings’ success during that era.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Steven Joseph Riley
Born: February 9, 1944
Hometown: Minneapolis, Minnesota

High School:

• Riley attended Southwest High School in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he played high school football and was known for his physicality on the field.

College:

• He played college football at the University of Minnesota, where he was an integral part of the Golden Gophers’ offensive line.
• Riley’s success at the college level helped him catch the attention of NFL scouts, and he was drafted into the NFL after his collegiate career.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

• Steve Riley was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 4th round of the 1966 NFL Draft (45th overall pick).

Minnesota Vikings (1966–1973)

• Offensive Lineman:
  • Riley played as an offensive guard for the Minnesota Vikings from 1966 to 1973.
  • Known for his strength and blocking ability, Riley played a key role in protecting the Vikings’ quarterbacks and opening up running lanes for their ball carriers.
• Contributions to the Team:
  • During his tenure with the Vikings, Riley was part of an offensive line that helped the team remain competitive in the NFL during the 1960s and 1970s.
  • His play was particularly important in helping the Vikings sustain strong offensive performances, especially as they made several playoff appearances during this period.
• Playoff Appearances:
  • Riley played a key role in helping the Vikings reach multiple playoff appearances and Super Bowl IV in 1970. The team’s success was largely due to its balanced offense and strong defense, with the offensive line playing a critical part in maintaining that balance.
• Retirement:
  • After the 1973 season, Riley retired from professional football. He was respected as a solid, dependable offensive lineman who contributed significantly to the success of the Vikings’ offense during his time with the team.

Legacy

• Minnesota Vikings:
  • Riley is remembered as an important part of the Minnesota Vikings’ offensive line during the 1960s and 1970s. While not as well-known as some of the team’s other star players, his consistent play and ability to block effectively were vital to the success of the Vikings’ offense.
• NFL Career:
  • Although Riley did not gain national fame, his solid and steady play was a key part of the Vikings’ competitive teams during his career. His efforts helped maintain the stability of the offensive line, which is often overlooked but essential to a team’s success.

Summary

• Position: Offensive Guard
• NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (1966–1973)
• Career Length: 8 seasons
• Notable: Part of the Minnesota Vikings’ offensive line during their successful era in the late 1960s and early 1970s, contributing to playoff appearances and Super Bowl IV.

Steve Riley is remembered as a solid and dependable offensive lineman who played a critical role in the success of the Minnesota Vikings’ offense during the 1960s and early 1970s. His contributions to the team’s offensive line were essential to the Vikings’ success, and his steady performance helped pave the way for many of the team’s most successful seasons during that era.