As the first General Manager of the Vikings, Rose was instrumental in shaping the team's early years. He was responsible for the selection of players, coaches, and other staff members. He played a crucial role in the 1961 NFL Draft, where he helped the Vikings secure 32 players, including future Pro Football Hall of Famer Fran Tarkenton.
Under Rose's leadership, the Vikings quickly became competitive. In their inaugural season, they finished with a respectable 3-11 record. The following year, they improved to 2-11-1, and by 1964, they had a winning record of 8-5-1.
Rose's tenure with the Vikings was marked by his ability to identify and acquire talent. He was known for his keen eye for spotting potential in players and his knack for making shrewd trades. His efforts laid the foundation for the Vikings' success in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
In 1967, Rose left the Vikings to become the first General Manager of the New Orleans Saints. His tenure with the Saints was less successful than his time with the Vikings. The team struggled on the field, and Rose was unable to replicate the success he had in Minnesota. He left the Saints after just one season.
Despite the challenges he faced with the Saints, Rose's contributions to the NFL were significant. His work with the Vikings helped establish the team as a force in the NFL, and his efforts in player acquisition and team building set a standard for future general managers. His career may have been relatively short, but Bert Rose left a lasting impact on the world of American football.
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