Jeff Siemon is a former NFL linebacker best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings. Siemon was a key member of the Vikings’ defense during the 1970s and 1980s, known for his intelligence, leadership, and consistent play.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Jeffrey Thomas Siemon
Born: February 17, 1951
Hometown: Fresno, California

High School:

• Siemon attended Hoover High School in Fresno, California, where he was an outstanding athlete, excelling in football.

College:

• He played college football at Stanford University, where he was a standout linebacker.
• Siemon was recognized for his leadership on the field and his ability to make plays, earning All-Pacific-8 honors during his time at Stanford.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

• Jeff Siemon was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 1st round of the 1974 NFL Draft (11th overall pick).

Minnesota Vikings (1974–1984)

• Linebacker:
  • Siemon played for the Minnesota Vikings for 11 seasons (1974–1984), primarily as a middle linebacker.
  • He was known for his high football IQ, excellent tackling, and leadership ability. Siemon was a versatile linebacker who could read offenses well, making him a key player in the Vikings’ defensive schemes.
• Key Contributions:
  • Siemon was a leader on the Vikings’ defense during one of the team’s most successful periods, which included multiple division championships and playoff appearances.
  • He was an integral part of the Vikings’ defense in the mid-1970s, helping the team reach Super Bowl IX (1976), where they lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
  • Siemon was known for his ability to make critical tackles and his intelligence on the field, often acting as the quarterback of the defense.
• Pro Bowls and Achievements:
  • Siemon was selected to two Pro Bowls in his career, in 1976 and 1977, which acknowledged his status as one of the top linebackers in the NFL.
  • He also earned All-Pro honors and was a key member of the Vikings’ Purple People Eaters defensive era.
  • Siemon’s consistency and leadership made him one of the most respected players on the Vikings’ roster.

Retirement

• After retiring from the NFL following the 1984 season, Siemon left behind a legacy as one of the best linebackers in the history of the Minnesota Vikings.

Post-NFL Life

• Business and Community Involvement:
  • After his retirement from football, Jeff Siemon became involved in various business and community activities. He has remained active in charity work and supporting the Minnesota Vikings community.
  • Siemon also worked in real estate and served as a radio commentator for Viking games.

Legacy

• Minnesota Vikings:
  • Jeff Siemon is remembered as one of the top linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history. His leadership and football intelligence helped anchor a defensive unit that was one of the NFL’s best in the 1970s.
  • His work ethic, tackling ability, and ability to read offenses set him apart as one of the cornerstones of the Vikings’ defense during his era.

Summary

• Position: Linebacker
• NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (1974–1984)
• Career Length: 11 seasons
• Pro Bowls: 2 (1976, 1977)
• Super Bowl Appearance: Super Bowl IX (1976)
• Legacy: One of the top linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history, known for his leadership, football intelligence, and consistency.

Jeff Siemon’s impact on the Minnesota Vikings defense during his career was profound. His ability to read offenses and be a consistent force on the field helped elevate the Vikings’ defense during one of their most successful stretches in team history.