Langer joined the Miami Dolphins in 1970, initially playing on the team's taxi squad. His breakthrough came in 1972 when he became the starting center for the Dolphins. That year, Miami achieved the only perfect season in NFL history, finishing with a 17-0 record and winning Super Bowl VII. Langer's role as the anchor of the offensive line was instrumental in the team's success, providing protection for quarterback Bob Griese and creating running lanes for the Dolphins' powerful ground game.
Throughout his time with the Dolphins, Langer was known for his durability and consistency. He played in 128 consecutive games for Miami, a testament to his reliability and toughness on the field. His performance earned him six consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 1973 to 1978, and he was named a First-team All-Pro four times during that span.
Langer's excellence was not limited to regular-season play. He was a vital part of the Dolphins' back-to-back Super Bowl victories in the early 1970s, including their win in Super Bowl VIII. His ability to read defenses and make quick adjustments at the line of scrimmage was crucial in high-pressure situations, helping the Dolphins maintain their dominance during this period.
In 1980, Langer was traded to the Minnesota Vikings, where he continued to play for two more seasons before retiring in 1981. His career with the Vikings added to his legacy, as he brought veteran leadership and experience to the team.
Jim Langer's contributions to the game were recognized with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
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