Doug Sutherland Cause Of Death

Former Vikings defensive lineman Doug Sutherland, a member of the Purple People Eaters, died Tuesday, April 6, 2022, the team announced.

A cause of death has not yet been given.

Doug Sutherland was 73.

Douglas A. Sutherland was a American football defensive tackle in the NFL and played college football at the University of Wisconsin–Superior in his hometown of Superior, Wisconsin.

Doug Sutherland was selected in the 1970 NFL Draft with the New Orleans Saints and then became a part of the famous Purple People Eaters for the Minnesota Vikings from 1971 through 1980, primarily filling in for Gary Larsen in 1975.

Doug Sutherland entered the NFL as a 14th-round choice of the Saints in the 1970 draft.

Doug Sutherland played 10 games as a middle linebacker and guard during his rookie season before New Orleans traded him to the Vikings in August 1971.

Doug Sutherland was voted one of the 50 Greatest Vikings.

Doug Sutherland played in Super Bowls VIII, IX and XI.

Doug Sutherland finished his career in Seattle in 1981, playing 16 games with six starts.