Former Vikings defensive back Keith Nord dies at 61

September 20, 2018 at 12:01PM
Former Minnesota Viking Keith Nord, a Minnetonka High School and St. Cloud State graduate, has been happiest in his post-athletic career when following one of his three dogs through Minnesota's grouse woods or North Dakota's prairies. Nord has been diagnosed with cancer. (Brian Grossenbacher) ORG XMIT: 1240513
Keith Nord, in this 2017 photo, was an avid outdoorsman after ending his NFL career. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Former Vikings defensive back Keith Nord died Wednesday of cancer, the team announced.

Nord, 61, was the subject of an Outdoors feature in Sunday's Star Tribune.

Nord played college football at St. Cloud State from 1975-78, converting to defensive back after being a quarterback at Minnetonka High School.

He signed with the Vikings as a free agent in 1979 and was on the team for seven seasons. He was a special teams captain and a kick returner. His lone NFL touchdown came on a 70-yard kick return following a safety in 1980 against Washington, and he had one interception.

Following his football career, he was a motivational speaker.

He is survived by his wife, Jenn, and five children.

Staff Reports

September 1, 1980 Keith Nord Minnesota Vikings
Keith Nord with the Vikings in 1980. (The Minnesota Star Tribune)
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