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Jim Langer American football player

James John Langer (born May 16, 1948 in Little Falls, Minnesota) is a former American football center who played for the National Football League's Miami Dolphins and Minnesota Vikings. He is considered one of the greatest NFL centers of all time and a hard working and quick blocker. Langer was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987. Langer played middle linebacker at South Dakota State University, where in 1969 he was Honorable Mention All-America. Langer was signed by the Cleveland Browns as a free agent in 1970, but was cut during training camp. Langer signed as a free agent with the Miami Dolphins where for his first 2 seasons he saw limited action. Langer became the starter at center in the 1972 season and played in 141 consecutive games over 8 seasons until a knee injury ended his playing days with Miami nine games into the 1979 season. Langer was traded to the Minnesota Vikings prior to the 1980 season, playing 2 seasons with the Vikings before retiring after the 1981 campaign. During a phenomenal 6-year stretch Langer was named All-Pro 4 times 1974-1977, and 2nd Team All-Pro twice, in 1973 and 1978. He also appeared in the Pro Bowl each of those seasons. Langer played in three Super Bowls with the Dolphins. The Jim Langer Award is presented to the nation's top Division II lineman each year in his honor. After retiring from football, Langer worked in the truck accessory business.