Todd Steussie is a former NFL player who played as an offensive tackle, known for his durability and solid performance during his career. Steussie played for several teams, but he is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings and his role in protecting the team’s quarterbacks and opening up holes in the running game.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Todd Alan Steussie
Born: October 27, 1971
Hometown: Parker, Colorado

High School:

• Steussie attended Ponderosa High School in Parker, Colorado, where he excelled as an athlete. His physicality on the football field earned him recognition and laid the groundwork for his future in football.

College:

• He played college football at the University of California, Berkeley (Cal), where he was a standout on the offensive line.
• Steussie was recognized for his size, technique, and ability to dominate at the college level, which led to his selection in the NFL draft.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

• Todd Steussie was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1st round of the 1994 NFL Draft (19th overall pick).

Minnesota Vikings (1994–2000)

• Offensive Tackle:
  • Steussie played for the Minnesota Vikings from 1994 to 2000, primarily at left tackle. He was considered one of the top offensive tackles of his era.
  • He was known for his ability to protect the quarterback and open lanes for the running backs, particularly during a period when the Vikings’ offense was one of the most dynamic in the NFL, especially in the 1990s.
• Notable Contributions:
  • During his time with the Vikings, Steussie became a cornerstone of the offensive line. He was part of the team during a period of strong offensive performance, helping protect quarterbacks like Daunte Culpepper and Brad Johnson.
  • His blocking was crucial in helping running backs like Robert Smith and Chuck Foreman find success on the ground.
  • Steussie played a key role in the Vikings’ success, including their NFC Championship game appearance in 1998, where the team finished with a 15-1 record.
• Pro Bowls and Recognition:
  • Steussie earned a reputation as one of the top offensive tackles in the league and was selected to the Pro Bowl once during his time with the Vikings, in 1997.
  • His performances helped solidify his reputation as a key player on the offensive line during one of the Vikings’ most successful periods.

Other NFL Teams

• Carolina Panthers (2001–2004):
  • After leaving the Vikings, Steussie joined the Carolina Panthers, where he continued his career as a starting left tackle.
  • He played a key role in the Panthers’ offensive line, including during their run to Super Bowl XXXVIII in 2004, although they were ultimately defeated by the New England Patriots.
• Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2005–2006):
  • Steussie finished his NFL career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, playing two seasons with the team before retiring.

Retirement and Post-NFL Life

After retiring from the NFL following the 2006 season, Todd Steussie moved on to life beyond football. He has been involved in various business ventures and continues to maintain ties with the football community.

Legacy

• Minnesota Vikings:
  • Steussie is remembered as one of the top offensive linemen in Minnesota Vikings history, particularly during the 1990s. His contributions to the Vikings’ success in that era, especially in providing protection for star quarterbacks and ball carriers, were crucial to the team’s offensive efficiency.
• Overall Impact:
  • Steussie’s career is remembered for his strong blocking skills, reliability, and consistency. He was a key member of some of the most potent offenses in the league during the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Summary

• Position: Offensive Tackle
• NFL Teams: Minnesota Vikings (1994–2000), Carolina Panthers (2001–2004), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2005–2006)
• Career Length: 13 seasons
• Pro Bowls: 1 (1997)
• Super Bowl Appearance: Super Bowl XXXVIII (2004) with the Carolina Panthers
• Legacy: One of the top offensive tackles in Minnesota Vikings history, recognized for his blocking and consistency.

Todd Steussie’s career as an offensive tackle was marked by his consistency and ability to anchor an offensive line. He made a significant impact during his time with the Minnesota Vikings, where he helped shape the team’s success, and he continued his solid play with the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.