Players
Events
Linebacker

Roy Winston

Draft 1962

Number

60

Birthdate

1940-09-15

Is Alive

no

Acquisition Date

1962

Player Bio

Roy Winston was a former NFL linebacker who played his entire career with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his leadership, toughness, and steady play, Winston was an important part of the Vikings’ defense during the 1960s and 1970s. His role in the middle of the defense helped the Vikings become one of the league’s top teams, especially during their Super Bowl appearances and dominant defensive stretches.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Roy David Winston
Born: January 26, 1941
Hometown: Tampa, Florida

High School:

  • Winston attended Tampa High School in Tampa, Florida, where he excelled in football and showed the leadership and athleticism that would later serve him well in the NFL.

College:

  • He played college football at University of Miami, where he was a standout linebacker. Winston’s ability to read plays, combined with his athleticism and instincts, made him a force in college football and a promising prospect for the NFL.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

  • Roy Winston was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 6th round of the 1964 NFL Draft (81st overall pick).

Minnesota Vikings (1964–1974)

  • Linebacker:
    • Winston played for the Minnesota Vikings for 11 seasons from 1964 to 1974. He was known for his steady play and reliability in the middle of the Vikings’ defense, often helping to anchor the unit during the team’s most successful seasons.
    • As a linebacker, Winston’s job was to defend against the run, cover short-to-medium routes in the passing game, and provide leadership to a talented defense. He was a key player in the Vikings’ linebacker corps, which featured other great defenders like Gary Larsen and Wally Hilgenberg.
  • Key Contributions:
    • Winston was known for his leadership and consistency. He was a smart linebacker who was rarely caught out of position and was a key figure in the Vikings’ run defense.
    • He was not only a strong tackler but also had the ability to read plays and get to the ball carrier quickly.
    • Over his career, Winston was known for being durable, playing in every game during several seasons and maintaining his role as a defensive leader.
  • Vikings Success:
    • During his time with the Minnesota Vikings, Winston was part of one of the NFL’s most successful defenses. The Vikings reached Super Bowl IV (1969), Super Bowl VIII (1974), Super Bowl IX (1975), and Super Bowl XI (1977).
    • Although the Vikings did not win a Super Bowl during Winston’s career, the team was known for its strong defense, particularly the Purple People Eaters, and Winston played an important role in the success of the unit.
    • The Vikings’ defense, with Winston as a key contributor, was one of the best in the NFL throughout the 1970s, and his leadership in the middle of the field helped anchor the team’s efforts.

Retirement

  • Winston retired after the 1974 season, having played 11 years in the NFL and established himself as one of the most reliable linebackers in Vikings history. Although his career wasn’t as heralded as some of his teammates, his steady presence and leadership on defense were crucial during the Vikings’ peak years.

Post-NFL Life

  • After retiring from football, Roy Winston went on to lead a private life. He was involved in several business ventures and stayed relatively out of the public spotlight. He remained active in his community, where he contributed to various causes.

Legacy

  • Minnesota Vikings:
    • Roy Winston is remembered as a key member of the Minnesota Vikings‘ defense during their 1960s and 1970s era of success. His contributions to the team’s linebacker corps were critical in making the Vikings one of the top defensive teams in the NFL during his tenure.
    • While Winston was not always the most high-profile player on the defense, his steady and reliable play was instrumental in helping the Vikings compete for championships during his career.

Summary

  • Position: Linebacker
  • NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (1964–1974)
  • Career Length: 11 seasons
  • Key Contributions: Leadership, tackling, consistency in the middle of the defense
  • Super Bowl Appearances: 4 (Super Bowl IV, VIII, IX, XI)
  • Legacy: One of the key players on the Vikings’ defense during their dominant years in the 1970s, known for his leadership, smart play, and dependability in the linebacker position.

Roy Winston’s impact on the Minnesota Vikings was profound. While he may not have had the same level of fame as some of the team’s other stars, his leadership, toughness, and consistency made him a vital part of the Vikings’ defense during one of the franchise’s most successful eras.