We are deeply saddened to learn about the passing of longtime Minnesota Vikings coach and personnel executive Paul Wiggin, a legend in our Minnesota football community. 

Wiggin received the 2022 Bud Grant Distinguished Minnesotan Award for his outstanding contributions across every level of football. 

A statement from Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation President Todd Fultz: 

“We are saddened to hear about the passing of Paul Wiggin. Paul’s legacy will live on forever across Minnesota, our NFF Minnesota Chapter, the Minnesota Vikings organization and the entire NFL. As a player, coach and personnel executive, Paul was a part of many influential moments in football history. He also played a major role in identifying and developing high-level college and NFL athletes. Not only that, but Paul served as an influential mentor to countless individuals who went on to become coaches, scouts and personnel executives. He was a steadfast supporter of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation for many years and we are forever grateful for his unwavering commitment to football in our state. He always believed in supporting, mentoring and influencing kids in our community. The entire Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation sends our deepest condolences to the entire Wiggin family during this difficult time.”

A statement from Sean Gothier, Executive Director and Founding President of the Minnesota Chapter of the National Football Foundation:

“Paul was one of our chapter’s biggest supporters from the beginning. Whenever we needed something, Paul and his wife Carolynn were there. Paul was always very excited for the scholar-athletes that we honored. He had so much enthusiasm and believed deeply in the importance of character. That’s why he so strongly supported our awards, which honor leadership, academic excellence, character and community service achievements by kids across Minnesota. He never missed our Minnesota Football Honors event and wanted to meet all of our young award winners. His words of wisdom and genuine kindness left a lasting mark on everyone he encountered. Each year, he attended because he was passionate about the youth in our community. Paul’s commitment to building character and leadership will be felt forever across our chapter. I will cherish my longstanding relationship with Paul. I’m very thankful for everything he and Carolynn have done for our chapter. I want to send my deepest condolences to his wife, Carolynn, and the entire Wiggin family. He will be greatly missed.”

To learn more about Paul Wiggin’s life and career check out our past feature: https://www.nffmn.org/news_article/show/1258977