If you’re wondering is Fran Tarkenton still alive, the answer is a resounding yes.
At 85 years old, the man who practically invented the "scrambling" quarterback role is somehow still moving faster than people half his age. It’s wild. Most guys who took the kind of hits he did in the 60s and 70s are long retired to a quiet porch somewhere, but Tarkenton? He’s in his office in Atlanta.
He's probably on a Zoom call right now. Or maybe he's on a golf course at Pebble Beach.
Where is Fran Tarkenton now?
Honestly, the "Scrambler" hasn't slowed down a bit. As of early 2026, Francis Asbury Tarkenton remains a force in the business world. He doesn't just sit on boards; he runs them. His primary focus is Tarkenton Companies, a massive umbrella that covers everything from financial services to software.
You might remember him as the face of the Minnesota Vikings or the New York Giants, but today’s tech crowd knows him as a CEO. Just a few months ago, he was all over the news for launching a private AI platform specifically for small businesses. Think about that for a second. A guy who played in the NFL before the Super Bowl even existed is now teaching entrepreneurs how to use generative AI.
It’s almost surreal.
Most people retire at 65. Tarkenton seemingly decided that 85 was a great time to pivot into Silicon Valley-style innovation. He’s active, he’s vocal, and he’s still got that sharp, competitive edge that made him a nightmare for defensive linemen back in the day.
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The Health of a Hall of Famer
How is he doing it?
People always ask about his health. You don't get to 85 without some questions popping up. But by all accounts—including his recent media appearances on Fox Business and various sports podcasts—he is remarkably sharp. He’s still the same guy who hosted That’s Incredible! in the 80s, just with a bit more silver in his hair.
He credits a lot of his longevity to staying busy. He’s often said that "retirement is a dirty word." To him, the brain is a muscle. If you stop using it to solve problems, it atrophies.
He’s still a regular on the golf course, too. He famously hit a hole-in-one at Pebble Beach a few years back, and he still travels frequently with his wife, Linda. He isn't just "still alive"—he's actually living.
Why the rumors start
Every time an old-school legend stays out of the spotlight for a month, the internet starts whispering. Social media is notorious for those "Rest in Peace" hoaxes that gain traction for no reason.
Sometimes, people confuse him with other Vikings legends who have passed, or they see a "Farewell to an icon" headline that’s actually talking about a jersey retirement or a retrospective piece. It's easy to get caught up in the clickbait.
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But let’s set the record straight:
- Birthdate: February 3, 1940.
- Current Age: 85.
- Status: Very much active and living in Georgia.
From the Gridiron to the Boardroom
Tarkenton’s post-NFL life is arguably as impressive as his 18-season career. When he retired in 1978, he held basically every major passing record in the books. Most passing yards? Check. Most completions? Check. Most touchdowns? Check.
He didn't just walk away with a pension.
He started Tarkenton Software while he was still playing. Imagine a modern QB like Patrick Mahomes running a coding company in the off-season. People would think he was crazy. But Fran did it. He eventually sold that business for a massive sum and used the capital to build an empire.
Today, his business ventures include:
- GoSmallBiz.com: A platform providing resources for entrepreneurs.
- Tarkenton Financial: Helping people secure their retirement.
- Liger: A marketing firm focused on high-growth companies.
He’s also been a huge advocate for "underrepresented founders." In 2025, he partnered with a group called gener8tor to launch a fintech accelerator in Atlanta. He’s putting his money where his mouth is, helping the next generation of "scramblers" find their footing in a tough economy.
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Why Fran Tarkenton still matters in 2026
If you watch a game today, you’re seeing Fran’s DNA on the field.
Before him, quarterbacks were statues. You stood in the pocket, you took the hit, and you threw the ball. Fran changed that. He ran backwards. He circled around. He made defenders look like they were chasing a greased pig.
He’s a bridge between the leather-helmet era and the modern, high-speed game we see now. When he talks about the "danger" of the modern game or how quarterbacks need to be smarter with their bodies, people listen. He has the E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) that Google—and fans—crave.
Actionable Takeaways for Fans and Entrepreneurs
If you’re looking for inspiration from Fran’s longevity, here’s the blueprint he’s been following:
- Don't Stop Learning: Whether it's AI or new financial regulations, stay curious. The moment you think you know everything is the moment you start falling behind.
- Have a Plan: Fran often says "an idiot with a plan will beat a genius without one." Map out your next five years, even if you're already successful.
- Stay Mobile: Physically and mentally. Keep moving. Scramble when the pocket collapses, but always keep your eyes downfield.
- Diversify Your Identity: Don't just be "the football guy" or "the accountant." Be a person with multiple interests and revenue streams.
Fran Tarkenton is a living testament to the idea that life doesn't end at retirement. He’s 85, he’s healthy, and he’s probably planning his next big business move as you read this. If you want to keep up with him, check out his latest insights on GoSmallBiz or catch one of his frequent segments on business news networks. The Scrambler is still on the run.