Matt Blair is a former NFL linebacker who is best known for his time with the Minnesota Vikings. Blair was a key part of the Vikings’ defense during the 1970s and 1980s and is remembered for his athleticism, versatility, and leadership on the field.

Early Life and College Career

Full Name: Matthew Blake Blair
Born: August 20, 1951
Hometown: Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

High School:

• Blair attended Northwest Classen High School in Oklahoma City, where he played football and excelled as an athlete.

College:

• He played college football at Iowa State University, where he was a standout linebacker.
• Blair was known for his exceptional speed and athleticism, traits that would serve him well in the NFL. He was a First-Team All-Big Eight selection in college and was recognized for his ability to both rush the passer and cover in pass defense.

NFL Career

NFL Draft:

• Matt Blair was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL Draft (41st overall pick).

Minnesota Vikings (1974–1985)

• Linebacker:
  • Blair played for the Minnesota Vikings for 12 seasons (1974–1985). He quickly became a key player in the Vikings’ defense, known for his combination of speed, size, and athleticism, which was rare for a linebacker at the time.
  • Throughout his career, Blair was a versatile linebacker, capable of playing both inside and outside linebacker positions, and he was an important part of the Purple People Eaters defensive unit.
• Key Contributions:
  • Blair was an integral part of the Vikings’ defense during the team’s strong years in the 1970s and 1980s. He was known for his ability to rush the passer, drop into coverage, and make tackles all over the field.
  • He was a key contributor to the Vikings’ defensive success, helping the team reach Super Bowl IX (1976), where they lost to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
  • Blair’s speed allowed him to cover a lot of ground, making him a difficult player for opponents to block or contain.
• Pro Bowls and Achievements:
  • Blair was selected to the Pro Bowl four times (1976, 1977, 1979, 1980), a testament to his skill and consistency as one of the top linebackers in the NFL during the 1970s and 1980s.
  • He was also named an All-Pro in 1979, further solidifying his place among the NFL’s elite linebackers.
  • Blair finished his career with 1,409 tackles, 17 sacks, and 19 interceptions, impressive numbers for a linebacker during that era.

Retirement

• Blair retired after the 1985 season, leaving behind a legacy as one of the top linebackers in Vikings history. His leadership and performance in the middle of the Vikings’ defense during the 1970s and 1980s helped establish him as one of the franchise’s greats.

Post-NFL Life

• After retiring from the NFL, Blair remained active in the community and has been involved in various charitable causes.
• He has been honored by the Minnesota Vikings and is a part of the team’s history as one of the key defensive players during its most successful era.

Legacy

• Minnesota Vikings:
  • Matt Blair is considered one of the top linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history. His ability to read plays, cover ground quickly, and make crucial tackles made him a vital part of the team’s defense during his career.
  • He was inducted into the Minnesota Vikings Ring of Honor in 2015, cementing his place in the franchise’s history.

Summary

• Position: Linebacker
• NFL Team: Minnesota Vikings (1974–1985)
• Career Length: 12 seasons
• Pro Bowls: 4 (1976, 1977, 1979, 1980)
• All-Pro Selections: 1st-Team (1979)
• Super Bowl Appearance: Super Bowl IX (1976)
• Legacy: One of the best linebackers in Minnesota Vikings history, known for his athleticism, leadership, and impact on the field.

Matt Blair’s career with the Minnesota Vikings is remembered for his consistency and ability to make plays all over the field. His success as a linebacker helped shape one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history during the 1970s and 1980s.