Marlin McKeever

The Versatile Leader of the Rams Defense

Marlin McKeever was the epitome of toughness, leadership, and versatility, a player who could dominate on both sides of the ball and excel at multiple positions. A two-time Pro Bowler and defensive stalwart, McKeever was one of the most intelligent and physically imposing linebackers of his era, helping anchor the Los Angeles Rams defense during the 1960s.

Though best known as a hard-hitting linebacker, McKeever also played tight end and was an emergency punter when needed. His ability to excel at multiple positions made him one of the most valuable and respected players of his time, as he helped the Rams transition into one of the league’s top defensive teams.

A true ironman with incredible football IQ, McKeever’s contributions may not always show up in the stat sheet, but he was a cornerstone of the Rams' defensive success, earning the respect of teammates, opponents, and fans alike.

The Numbers Behind McKeever’s Greatness

• Two-time Pro Bowler (1966, 1967)
• Los Angeles Rams Defensive Captain
• Played both linebacker and tight end in the NFL
• 13-year NFL career (1961-1973)
• Career Stats:
  • 24 career interceptions (including multiple seasons with 3+ picks)
  • 11 fumble recoveries
  • Over 150 games played
  • Countless key tackles, pass deflections, and defensive stops

While official tackle stats weren’t kept during McKeever’s era, his impact as a leader and enforcer on the Rams defense was undeniable.

A College Star at USC – Two-Way Greatness

Before he became a standout in the NFL, McKeever was already a football icon at USC, where he starred on both offense and defense.

• Born in Cheyenne, Wyoming, in 1940, McKeever moved to Los Angeles, where he became a high school football star.
• At USC, he was a dominant two-way player, excelling as a linebacker, tight end, and punter.
• He was a two-time All-American at linebacker, leading USC’s defense with bone-crushing tackles and elite play recognition.
• On offense, he also contributed as a pass-catching tight end, making him one of the most versatile players in college football.
• The Los Angeles Rams selected him 4th overall in the 1961 NFL Draft, keeping him in LA, where he would become a franchise legend.

At USC, McKeever’s ability to dominate both sides of the ball made him one of the greatest Trojans of all time, leading to his induction into the USC Hall of Fame.

The Early Years – A Versatile Weapon for the Rams

McKeever was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1961, and from day one, he was used in multiple roles.

• As a rookie, he played both tight end and linebacker, proving that his two-way ability from college translated to the NFL.
• Over time, he transitioned into a full-time defensive player, quickly establishing himself as one of the most reliable linebackers in the league.
• By the mid-1960s, he was the heart of the Rams defense, serving as the team captain and defensive leader.

McKeever’s combination of toughness, intelligence, and versatility made him one of the most respected players in the NFL.

The Defensive Captain of the Rams’ Rise to Power

Throughout the 1960s, the Rams transformed from a struggling franchise into a dominant defensive team, and McKeever was at the center of that evolution.

• By 1966 and 1967, he had become one of the most dominant linebackers in football, earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections.
• He played alongside the legendary “Fearsome Foursome” defensive line, featuring Deacon Jones, Merlin Olsen, Lamar Lundy, and Rosey Grier.
• While the Fearsome Foursome pressured quarterbacks, McKeever was the defensive general, ensuring that the linebackers and secondary were in position to make plays.
• His ability to read offenses, cover tight ends, and stop the run made him one of the most complete linebackers of his era.

During this time, McKeever was one of the most feared and respected linebackers in the NFL, leading the Rams defense with physicality and leadership.

Later Years – Journeyman and Veteran Leader

After spending nine seasons with the Rams, McKeever continued his NFL journey, playing for several teams in his later years.

• In 1970, he was traded to the Minnesota Vikings, where he played alongside Hall of Fame defenders like Alan Page and Carl Eller.
• He also had stints with the Washington Redskins (1971) and Philadelphia Eagles (1972-1973) before retiring.
• Even as a veteran, he remained a respected leader and contributor, helping mentor young players and providing valuable depth on defense.

By the time he retired, McKeever had played in 150+ games, leaving behind a legacy of hard-nosed defense, versatility, and leadership.

Defining Moments of McKeever’s Career

• 1961 – Rookie Season: Proves his versatility by playing both linebacker and tight end.
• 1966-1967 – Pro Bowl Years: Becomes one of the most dominant linebackers in the NFL, earning back-to-back Pro Bowl selections.
• Leader of the Rams Defense: Serves as team captain and plays alongside the Fearsome Foursome, helping turn the Rams into a top defense.
• 1970 – Joins the Vikings: Plays for one of the best defenses of the era, reinforcing his reputation as a leader.
• 1973 – Retirement: Finishes a 13-year career, remembered as one of the toughest and smartest linebackers of his time.

The Most Iconic Marlin McKeever Football Cards

McKeever’s football cards are rare and highly collectible, representing one of the Rams’ first great defensive leaders.

• 1962 Topps #151 Marlin McKeever Rookie Card – His most sought-after card, showing him as a young star for the Rams.
• 1967 Philadelphia #111 Marlin McKeever – Released in the middle of his Pro Bowl seasons.
• 1971 Topps #92 Marlin McKeever – Captures him in his Vikings years, near the end of his career.

For collectors, McKeever’s cards are prized for their rarity and historical significance.

A Legacy of Versatility, Toughness, and Leadership

McKeever may not have been a household name like Dick Butkus or Ray Nitschke, but his impact on the game was undeniable.

• He was one of the most versatile linebackers of the 1960s, proving he could play multiple positions at a high level.
• His leadership helped transform the Rams from an average team into a defensive powerhouse.
• He was a key part of the legendary Fearsome Foursome defense, helping establish the Rams' identity as a dominant defensive team.

Even after his playing career, McKeever remained a respected figure in football, working in broadcasting and mentoring young players.

Though he may not be a Hall of Famer, his legacy as a hard-hitting, intelligent, and versatile linebacker makes him one of the greatest defenders in Rams history.