Joe Kapp, Quarterback Who Led Vikings to Super Bowl IV, Dies at 85

Joe Kapp, the former NFL quarterback who led the Minnesota Vikings in Super Bowl IV, died on May 8, 2023, at the age of 85. Kapp played for several teams during his football career, but he is most remembered for his time with the Vikings.

Kapp was born in California in 1938 and went on to play college football at the University of California, Berkeley. He was drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1959 but was later traded to the Calgary Stampeders in the Canadian Football League (CFL). Kapp played for the Stampeders from 1959 to 1966, leading them to the Grey Cup, the CFL championship, in 1964.

In 1967, Kapp joined the newly-formed American Football League (AFL) team, the Boston Patriots. He played one season with the Patriots before being traded to the Vikings in 1968. Kapp took over as the Vikings’ starting quarterback that season and led them to a 12-2 record, the best in the NFL that year. He then led the Vikings to the Super Bowl, where they lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.

Kapp played one more season with the Vikings before being traded to the New England Patriots in 1970. He retired from football after playing one season with the Patriots.

After his retirement, Kapp went on to coach football at several colleges and universities, including the University of California, Berkeley. He also coached the Calgary Stampeders and the B.C. Lions in the CFL.

Kapp was known for his tough playing style and his leadership on the field. He was a fierce competitor and was beloved by his teammates and fans alike. His legacy in football will be remembered for many years to come.

In conclusion, the football world has lost a great player and leader with the passing of Joe Kapp. His contributions to the game will always be remembered, and his legacy will live on through the players he coached and the fans he inspired. Rest in peace, Joe Kapp.