Throughout the rich history of the Atlanta Falcons, a remarkable collection of talented football players has graced the field, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise. This article pays homage to the ten greatest players to have ever worn the Falcons’ colors. From their acquisitions to their notable achievements, the impact they made on the team, and the adoration they received from peers and fans, we delve into the illustrious careers that defined their greatness. Join us as we celebrate the enduring legacy of these Atlanta Falcons legends.
1. Deion Sanders – Cornerback (1989-1993, 1995)
Stats:
- Interceptions: 24
- Touchdowns: 6
- Passes Defended: 86
Acquisition: Deion Sanders, famously known as “Prime Time,” was acquired by the Atlanta Falcons as the fifth overall pick in the 1989 NFL Draft. Sanders’ unparalleled speed, agility, and versatility made him an immediate sensation on both defense and special teams.
Notable Achievements:
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994)
- 8-time Pro Bowl selection
- 3-time First-Team All-Pro
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2011)
Impact and Legacy: Sanders revolutionized the cornerback position with his extraordinary coverage skills, unmatched agility, and electrifying returns. His flamboyant personality and larger-than-life persona captivated fans and media alike, solidifying his status as one of the greatest Falcons in history.
2. Tommy Nobis – Linebacker (1966-1976)
Stats:
- Tackles: 1,040
- Interceptions: 12
- Fumble recoveries: 15
Acquisition: Tommy Nobis, the first-ever draft pick in Atlanta Falcons history, was selected as the first overall pick in the 1966 NFL Draft. Nobis’ exceptional size, strength, and football IQ quickly established him as the cornerstone of the Falcons’ defense.
Notable Achievements:
- NFL Rookie of the Year (1966)
- 5-time Pro Bowl selection
- 2-time Second-Team All-Pro
- Inducted into the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor (2004)
Impact and Legacy: Nobis, revered for his tenacity, exceptional tackling ability, and leadership qualities, consistently dominated opponents and set the standard for excellence. He remains an icon of the Falcons franchise, eternally recognized for his unparalleled contributions.
3. Julio Jones – Wide Receiver (2011-2020)
Stats:
- Receptions: 848
- Receiving Yards: 12,896
- Touchdowns: 63
Acquisition: Julio Jones was acquired by the Atlanta Falcons through a trade, moving up to the sixth overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. His imposing size, blazing speed, and remarkable catch radius made him an immediate force in the league.
Notable Achievements:
- 7-time Pro Bowl selection
- 2-time First-Team All-Pro
- Two-time NFL leader in receiving yards (2015, 2018)
- Holder of numerous franchise records for receiving yards and receptions
Impact and Legacy: Jones redefined the wide receiver position during his tenure with the Falcons. His combination of physicality, precise route-running, and unparalleled athleticism made him a perennial nightmare for opposing defenses. Jones’ remarkable consistency and ability to make acrobatic catches in tight coverage elevated him to an elite status. His impact on the franchise will forever be remembered by peers and fans alike.
4. Mike Kenn – Offensive Tackle (1978-1994)
Stats:
- Games Played: 251
- Consecutive Starts: 251
Acquisition: Mike Kenn was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons as the 13th overall pick in the 1978 NFL Draft. His exceptional size, strength, and technique made him an immovable force on the offensive line.
Notable Achievements:
- 5-time Pro Bowl selection
- Second-Team All-Pro (1980)
- Inducted into the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor (2008)
Impact and Legacy: Kenn’s longevity and consistency on the offensive line were unmatched. He provided a formidable presence, safeguarding quarterbacks and creating running lanes throughout his illustrious career. Kenn was highly respected for his toughness, intelligence, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
5. Jessie Tuggle – Linebacker (1987-2000)
Stats:
- Tackles: 2,065
- Sacks: 21.5
- Interceptions: 10
Acquisition: Jessie Tuggle joined the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 1987. His relentless work ethic and determination propelled him to become one of the most beloved players in franchise history.
Notable Achievements:
- 5-time Pro Bowl selection
- 3-time Second-Team All-Pro
- Inducted into the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor (2007)
Impact and Legacy: Tuggle’s hard-hitting style, exceptional instincts, and durability made him the backbone of the Falcons’ defense. His impressive tackle count and relentless pursuit of the ball carrier became synonymous with his name. Tuggle’s unwavering dedication and inspirational story endeared him to fans, securing his place among the greatest Atlanta Falcons players of all time.
6. Matt Ryan – Quarterback (2008-present)
Stats (as of 2021):
- Passing Yards: 55,767
- Touchdown Passes: 342
- Completion Percentage: 65.2%
Acquisition: Matt Ryan was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the third overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Ryan’s poise, accuracy, and leadership qualities made him an ideal fit for the Falcons’ offense.
Notable Achievements:
- NFL Most Valuable Player (2016)
- 4-time Pro Bowl selection
- Atlanta Falcons all-time passing leader in yards and touchdowns
Impact and Legacy: Ryan’s consistent performance, unwavering dedication, and ability to lead the team through challenging situations have made him a revered figure in Atlanta. He guided the Falcons to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance in 2017, further cementing his place in the franchise’s history. Ryan’s leadership and remarkable statistical accomplishments have garnered immense respect from both peers and fans.
7. William Andrews – Running Back (1979-1986)
Stats:
- Rushing Yards: 5,986
- Receiving Yards: 2,579
- Touchdowns: 58
Acquisition: William Andrews was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 1979 NFL Draft. Andrews’ exceptional blend of power, speed, and versatility made him an integral part of the Falcons’ offense.
Notable Achievements:
- 4-time Pro Bowl selection
- First-Team All-Pro (1983)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor member
Impact and Legacy: Andrews was a dynamic force in the Falcons’ backfield, known for his ability to break tackles and contribute as a receiver. His remarkable production and workhorse mentality made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the NFL.
8. Jeff Van Note – Center (1969-1986)
Stats:
- Games Played: 246
- Consecutive Starts: 226
Acquisition: Jeff Van Note joined the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 1969. His intelligence, toughness, and durability made him a linchpin of the Falcons’ offensive line.
Notable Achievements:
- 6-time Pro Bowl selection
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor member
Impact and Legacy: Van Note’s longevity and consistency as the Falcons’ center were unparalleled. He showcased exceptional blocking skills, leadership qualities, and a deep understanding of the game. Van Note’s contributions were highly regarded by peers and fans, solidifying his place among the greatest Atlanta Falcons players of all time.
9. Claude Humphrey – Defensive End (1968-1978, 1981-1984)
Stats:
- Sacks: 94.5
- Forced Fumbles: 14
- Interceptions: 2
Acquisition: Claude Humphrey was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons as the third overall pick in the 1968 NFL Draft. His explosive pass-rushing skills and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him a formidable presence on the defensive line.
Notable Achievements:
- 6-time Pro Bowl selection
- 2-time First-Team All-Pro
- Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame (2014)
Impact and Legacy: Humphrey was a dominant force, wreaking havoc on opposing offenses throughout his career. His remarkable speed, strength, and technique earned him widespread acclaim. Humphrey’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame solidifies his place among the all-time greats.
10. Roddy White – Wide Receiver (2005-2015)
Stats:
- Receptions: 808
- Receiving Yards: 10,863
- Touchdowns: 63
Acquisition: Roddy White was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons as the 27th overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft. His combination of size, physicality, and route-running prowess made him a reliable target for the Falcons’ quarterbacks.
Notable Achievements:
- 4-time Pro Bowl selection
- Atlanta Falcons all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns
Impact and Legacy: White’s exceptional consistency and remarkable chemistry with Matt Ryan made him a cornerstone of the Falcons’ offense. Known for his precise route-running and ability to make tough catches in traffic, White provided a reliable presence throughout his tenure with the team. His records and impact on the franchise solidify his place among the greatest Atlanta Falcons players.
Conclusion: The Atlanta Falcons have been privileged to witness the greatness of numerous extraordinary players over the years. From the lightning-fast prime of Deion Sanders to the iconic toughness of Tommy Nobis, each player on this esteemed list has contributed to the rich history and enduring legacy of the Atlanta Falcons. Their remarkable achievements, combined with the admiration and respect they garnered from peers and fans, make them true legends of the game. As the franchise continues to evolve, the names of these ten Falcons players will forever be etched in the annals of football history.