Merlin Olsen career with the Los Angeles Rams of the National Football League that spanned from 1962 to 1976 and was selected to 14 consecutive Pro Bowls, a tie with Bruce Matthews for the longest streak in league history. According to the Olsen's profile on the Hall of Fame’s Web site, he was 6-foot-5 and 270 pounds during his playing career.

Olsen turned to a career in acting and starred in the television drama "Little House on the Prairie" from 1977 to 1982, playing Jonathan Garvey, a friend of the main family in the series about 19th century rural America after his football career ended in 1976. Olsen was also a longtime color commentator for NBC’s pro football and Rose Bowl telecasts, working with Dick Enberg. Merlin Olsen was survived by his wife, Susan, children Nathan, Jill and Kelly.