The Minnesota Vikings and the NFL community are mourning the loss of Paul Flatley, the 1963 Associated Press NFL Rookie of the Year, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 84.
The Minnesota Vikings announced Paul Flatley’s death on Sunday but didn’t share how it happened. The team shared a statement sending condolences to his family and celebrating his achievements on and off the field.
Flatley was a talented wide receiver who joined the Vikings as a fourth-round pick (44th overall) in the 1963 NFL Draft. In his rookie season, he made an instant impact with 51 catches for 867 yards and four touchdowns.
RIP Paul Flatley, the UPI’s NFL Rookie of the Year in 1963. Our condolences go out to his family 🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/gLXUMk8XYA
— Four Verts 🏈 (@FourVerticals_) March 16, 2025
His performance earned him Rookie of the Year and set a franchise record for most receptions by a rookie—a record that stood until 1998. His efforts helped shape the Vikings in their early years, leaving a lasting legacy.
Fans and former teammates also honored him on social media, sharing memories of his dedication and sportsmanship.
Minnesota Vikings family grieve the loss of Paul Flatley
Social media is flooded with reactions from Minnesota Vikings families and fans after the team announced the sad news of Paul Flatley’s death. His passing marks the end of an era for the Vikings, and everyone is talking about the lasting impact he made on the team.
@VIKINGGIRL4EVER shared, “May he rest in peace 💜💛”
May he rest in peace 💜💛
— MareBear (@VIKINGGIRL4EVER) March 16, 2025
@PhillyKH7 said, “Always a sad day when one of the sports legends passes. RIP”
Always a sad day when one of the sports legends passes. RIP
— Keith H7 (@PhillyKH7) March 16, 2025
@CRBONES3 commented, “GOD have mercy on his soul, Amen.🙏”
GOD have mercy on his soul, Amen.🙏
— CR BONES (@CRBONES3) March 16, 2025
@ShabanZaki2 shared, “R.I.P To Paul Flatley 🙏🙏 Prayers To His Family 🙏🙏”
R.I.P To Paul Flatley 🙏🙏 Prayers To His Family 🙏🙏
— Shaban Zaki (@ShabanZaki2) March 16, 2025
@ndsiouxviking noted, “Prayers to the family and organization. 🙏💜💜”
Prayers to the family and organization. 🙏💜💜
— Todd Miller (@ndsiouxviking) March 16, 2025
