This week in Forsyth County history.
Born January 25, 1942, Known for NFL Career and Advocacy
Carl Eller was born on January 25, 1942, in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. He attended Atkins High School, where he played football and track. His team won the state championship in 1959. He later played college football at the University of Minnesota. Eller helped lead his team to a Rose Bowl victory in 1962. He was named a consensus All-American in 1963. In 1964, the Minnesota Vikings selected him in the first round of the NFL Draft. He played as a defensive end from 1964 through 1979, mostly with the Vikings. He appeared in four Super Bowls and six Pro Bowls. He recorded 133.5 career sacks and recovered 23 fumbles. In 2004, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. After retiring, he worked in human services and substance abuse recovery. He maintained ties to Winston-Salem, where his early life and athletic foundation began. His accomplishments brought attention to his hometown.