Doug Sutherland, former 'Purple People Eater' with the Vikings, dead at 73

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Former Vikings defensive lineman Doug Sutherland, a member of Minnesota's famed "Purple People Eaters," died Tuesday, the team announced. He was 73. 

"Doug Sutherland was one of our proudest Legends. His humble nature did not allow for him to talk much about his own playing career, but Doug was a key member of some of the best defenses in NFL history and three Super Bowl teams," Vikings owners Zygi and Mark Wilf said in a statement. "Doug was also the consummate teammate after football. He was one of the most active members of Vikings Legends events and didn't miss a chance to help out at a community event or lend a hand where needed. Our thoughts are with Doug's friends and family."

Sutherland entered the NFL as a 14th-round pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 1970 draft. He played one season for the Saints at guard and linebacker before New Orleans traded him to the Vikings in 1971, altering his career forever. 

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Football: St. Louis Cardinals QB Jim Hart (17) after sack by Minnesota Vikings Doug Sutherland (69) at Metropolitan Stadium. Bloomington, MN 12/21/1974 ((Photo by Dick Raphael /Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)

After three seasons of no starts, Sutherland eventually filled in for injured lineman Gary Larsen, who at the time made up one-quarter of the "Purple People Eaters" defensive line group. Sutherland started eight games in 1974. 

When Larsen retired following that season, Sutherland stepped in to replace him full time, joining the already star-studded Vikings defensive line that included Hall of Famers Alan Page and Carl Eller, as well as Jim Marshall. 

With the Vikings,