Chris Doleman Inducted to Minnesota Sports Hall of Fame

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Mar 19, 2019
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Fellow Pro Football Hall of Fame member and former Vikings teammate John Randle spoke with the Star Tribune's Michael Rand about Doleman's legacy.


Randle described Doleman's relentless approach and commitments he made to evolve and improve his skills.


"He just had his way of telling you about things," Randle said. "He didn't have a spin move, and I remember him and [defensive line coach] John Teerlinck would talk about getting him a spin move because he had to go against Lomas Brown, who played for Detroit.


"I remember watching him, all of a sudden, first, understanding he didn't have a spin move and trying to work at it and go through the process," Randle continued. "Most guys wouldn't want to do that. Most older players do not want to change, and Chris Doleman changed and learned to get a spin move."


The No. 4 overall pick in the 1985 NFL Draft out of Pittsburgh, Doleman transitioned from linebacker to defensive end.


A prolific career followed, with Doleman blending on-field intensity and a robust personality every step of the way. He inspired teammates to do their best and commanded respect from foes who tried to slow him down.


Over the course of 15 pro seasons, including 10 with Minnesota, Doleman racked up 150.5 career sacks, which ranks fifth in NFL history.


That total includes a whopping 21 in 1989 when he led the NFL and helped Minnesota set a single-season franchise record with 71 team sacks.
 
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