Merlin Olsen

The Gentle Giant Who Dominated the Trenches

When discussing the greatest defensive linemen in NFL history, few names stand taller than Merlin Olsen. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, 14-time Pro Bowler, and the cornerstone of the legendary "Fearsome Foursome", Olsen was the ultimate combination of power, intelligence, and durability. He defined the role of the modern defensive tackle, controlling the line of scrimmage with relentless strength, elite technique, and an unmatched work ethic.

Nicknamed "The Gentle Giant" because of his soft-spoken, kind demeanor off the field, Olsen was anything but gentle when the game started. His dominance in the trenches made life miserable for opposing offenses, and his impact helped transform the Los Angeles Rams defense into one of the most feared units in NFL history.

Beyond football, Olsen was also a beloved television personality, starring in Little House on the Prairie and working as an NFL broadcaster, proving that his talents extended far beyond the gridiron.

The Numbers Behind Olsen’s Greatness

Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1982, first-ballot)
14-time Pro Bowler (NFL record for a defensive lineman, 1962-1975)
Six-time First-Team All-Pro (1964-1970)
NFL Rookie of the Year (1962)
NFL 1960s and 1970s All-Decade Teams
NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
Los Angeles Rams Ring of Honor
Career Stats:
- 208 consecutive games played
- Over 90 sacks (unofficial, as sacks weren’t an official stat in his era)
- Countless quarterback pressures, tackles, and game-changing plays

Olsen was the epitome of durability, consistency, and dominance, never missing a game in 15 seasons and earning a record 14 Pro Bowl selections.

The College Years – A Star at Utah State

Before becoming a legend in the NFL, Olsen was already a dominant force at Utah State University, where he became one of the greatest defensive linemen in college football history.

Born in Logan, Utah, in 1940, Olsen grew up as a multi-sport athlete, excelling in football and track.
At Utah State, he became a two-time All-American (1960, 1961) and was regarded as the best defensive lineman in the country.
In 1961, he led Utah State to a top-10 national ranking, turning the small program into a national powerhouse.
He won the Outland Trophy as the best interior lineman in college football, a testament to his dominance in the trenches.

Olsen’s college dominance made him a top NFL prospect, and in 1962, the Los Angeles Rams selected him with the third overall pick in the NFL Draft—a move that would change their franchise forever.

The Rams Years – The Heart of the "Fearsome Foursome"

Olsen arrived in Los Angeles in 1962 and immediately made an impact, winning NFL Rookie of the Year honors as he solidified himself as one of the best defensive tackles in football.

By 1963, Olsen had teamed up with Deacon Jones, Lamar Lundy, and Rosey Grier to form the legendary "Fearsome Foursome", one of the most dominant defensive lines in NFL history.
Olsen was the anchor of the group, controlling the middle of the field, stuffing the run, and freeing up Jones and Lundy to terrorize quarterbacks.
His combination of strength, technique, and relentless pursuit made him unstoppable, and from 1964-1970, he was named First-Team All-Pro six times.

Olsen’s presence in the middle of the Rams' defense made them one of the toughest teams in football, and his ability to overpower blockers and disrupt plays changed how defensive tackles were valued.

The Fearsome Foursome – One of the Greatest Defensive Units Ever

The Fearsome Foursome became NFL legends, redefining what it meant to play defensive line.

Deacon Jones brought the sacks and coined the term "sacking the quarterback."
Lamar Lundy was a powerful pass rusher and run stopper.
Rosey Grier was a strong, physical presence in the middle.
Merlin Olsen was the leader, the strategist, and the ultimate technician.

Together, they dominated opposing offenses, making the Rams one of the most feared teams in the league despite never winning a Super Bowl.

Olsen’s ability to clog running lanes, shed blockers, and push the pocket was instrumental in the unit’s success.

The Later Years – Consistency and Excellence Until the End

Even as the NFL evolved in the 1970s, Olsen remained one of the best defensive linemen in the league.

He continued to make Pro Bowls every year until his retirement in 1976, finishing with an NFL-record 14 Pro Bowls for a defensive lineman.
He remained the leader of the Rams defense, mentoring younger players and keeping the team competitive.
He retired after 15 seasons, having played in 208 consecutive games, proving his durability, reliability, and commitment to the game.

Olsen’s longevity and dominance over three different decades cemented his status as one of the greatest linemen of all time.

Life After Football – A Beloved TV Personality and Broadcaster

While many players struggle to transition after football, Olsen became a household name in Hollywood and broadcasting.

He starred in Little House on the Prairie, playing the character Jonathan Garvey, becoming a fan favorite on the show.
He later starred in his own TV series, Father Murphy (1981-1983), proving he was more than just an athlete.
Olsen became a widely respected NFL broadcaster, working for NBC Sports as a color commentator, calling multiple Super Bowls and major NFL games.

His ability to connect with people, his kindness, and his charisma made him just as beloved off the field as he was on it.

Defining Moments of Olsen’s Career

1962 – NFL Rookie of the Year: Proves his dominance from day one, setting the tone for his career.
1963 – Formation of the "Fearsome Foursome": Becomes the anchor of one of the greatest defensive lines ever.
1967 – Rams Make Playoffs: Helps lead Los Angeles to their first playoff appearance in nearly two decades.
1970 – 14th Straight Pro Bowl Selection: Sets an NFL record that still stands today for defensive linemen.
1976 – Retirement After 15 Seasons: Leaves the game as one of the most respected players in history.
1982 – Hall of Fame Induction: Becomes a first-ballot Hall of Famer, solidifying his place among the all-time greats.

The Most Iconic Merlin Olsen Football Cards

Olsen’s cards remain highly valuable, representing one of the greatest defensive linemen ever.

1964 Philadelphia #43 Merlin Olsen Rookie Card – His most sought-after rookie card.
1969 Topps #140 Merlin Olsen – Captures him at the peak of his dominance.
1974 Topps #90 Merlin Olsen – A great card from his final years with the Rams.

These cards are must-haves for serious collectors, as they represent a true NFL legend.

A Legacy That Will Never Be Forgotten

Merlin Olsen wasn’t just a great football player—he was a role model, a TV star, and an ambassador for the game.

He helped redefine the defensive tackle position, setting the standard for generations of players to follow.
He was one of the most durable and consistent linemen ever, earning 14 Pro Bowl selections.
He became a beloved public figure, proving that greatness isn’t just about football—it’s about character, too.

A Defensive Icon, A Hollywood Star, and One of the Greatest Linemen in NFL History.