Paul Krause Biography

Paul James Krause, born February 19, 1942, was an American former professional football player who played as a safety in the NFL for the Minnesota Vikings and Washington Redskins. Krause performed as a skilled defensive player in limiting the impact of opposing wide receivers. Krause recorded 12 interceptions in his rookie season and later established the NFL career record with 81 interceptions, earning Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 1998. Over his 16-season NFL career, he was selected to eight Pro Bowls and is recognized as one of the greatest safeties in league history. He played high school football at Bendle High School in Burton, Michigan, and earned all-state honors in football, basketball, baseball, and track. Drafted 18th overall in the second round of the 1964 NFL draft, he began his professional career with the Washington Redskins. Krause spent the remainder of his career with the Minnesota Vikings, retiring after the 1979 season.