Krause was drafted in the second round of the 1964 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He quickly established himself as one of the best defensive backs in the league, earning Pro Bowl honors in his first four seasons. He was a key member of the Vikings' "Purple People Eaters" defense, which led the team to three Super Bowl appearances in the 1970s.
Krause was named an All-Pro six times and was selected to the Pro Bowl eight times during his career. He was also named to the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1970s. In 1998, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
Krause was known for his exceptional coverage skills and his ability to read the quarterback's eyes. He was also a fierce tackler, often delivering punishing hits to receivers and running backs. He was a leader in the locker room and on the field, and his teammates respected him for his work ethic and dedication to the game.
Krause retired in 1979 after 15 seasons in the NFL. He finished his career with 81 interceptions, which is still an NFL record. He was a true game-changer in the defensive backfield and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
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