Top 10 Atlanta Falcons of All Time

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When you think about the greatest Atlanta Falcons of all time, names like Matt Ryan and Deion Sanders might come to mind immediately. However, there’s more to the story than just these legends.

Each player has left their unique mark on the team’s history, from Julio Jones’ electrifying catches to Tommy Nobis’ defensive prowess. As we rank the Top 10 Atlanta Falcons of All Time, consider the lasting impact these players have had on the franchise. Who will take the number one spot?

1. Matt Ryan

• Years played for team: 2008–present
• Position: Quarterback
• Height/Weight: 6’4″ / 217 lbs

Matt Ryan, often referred to by his nickname “Matty Ice” for his calm demeanor in high-pressure situations, has carved a memorable legacy as one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Atlanta Falcons history.

Since joining the team in 2008, Ryan has been the cornerstone of the Falcons’ offense, known for his precise passing and strong leadership on the field. His playing style is characterized by an excellent ability to read defenses and deliver accurate throws.

A pivotal moment in Ryan’s career was leading the Falcons to the Super Bowl LI, where they captured the NFC Championship. His dedication and performance have made him a fan favorite and a respected figure in the franchise.

• Accolades:
• NFL MVP (2016)
• NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2016)
• 4× Pro Bowl selections (2010, 2012, 2014, 2016)
• First-team All-Pro (2016)
• All-time leading passer in Falcons history

2. Deion Sanders

• Years Played for Team: 1989-1993
• Position: Cornerback
• Height/Weight: 6 ft 1 in, 198 lbs

Deion Sanders, affectionately known as “Prime Time,” left an indelible mark on the Atlanta Falcons during his years from 1989 to 1993. Renowned for his electrifying play and flamboyant style, Sanders redefined the cornerback position with his unparalleled speed and agility.

His ability to shut down top receivers while also contributing as a dynamic punt returner made him a dual-threat on the field.

Sanders’ charisma and on-field antics energized the Falcons franchise and fan base. His legacy in Atlanta is encapsulated by his game-changing interceptions and bold personality, leaving a lasting imprint on the team’s history.

• Accolades:
• 3× Pro Bowl selection (1991, 1992, 1993) with the Falcons
• 2× First-Team All-Pro (1992, 1993)
• NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994, with the 49ers)
• 24 interceptions in his time with the Falcons
• Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2011

3. Julio Jones

• Years Played for Atlanta Falcons: 2011-2020
• Position: Wide Receiver
• Height/Weight: 6’3″/220 lbs

Julio Jones, a commanding force on the field, spent a decade with the Atlanta Falcons, cementing his status as one of the franchise’s greatest players. Known for his exceptional speed, agility, and leaping ability, Jones consistently posed a deep threat to defenses.

His ability to make spectacular catches, combined with his strong physical presence, made him a defensive nightmare.

A key moment in his career was leading the Falcons to Super Bowl LI in the 2016 season. Jones left a lasting legacy in Atlanta, ranking as one of the all-time leaders in receptions and receiving yards for the team.

• Accolades:
• 7× Pro Bowl selections (2012, 2014-2019)
• 2× First-Team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
• NFL receiving yards leader (2015, 2018)
• Atlanta Falcons all-time leader in receiving yards
• NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
• Recorded at least 1,400 receiving yards in five consecutive seasons (2014-2018)

4. Tommy Nobis

• Years Played: 1966-1976
• Position: Linebacker
• Height/Weight: 6’2″, 240 lbs

Tommy Nobis was a cornerstone of the Atlanta Falcons, being the team’s first-ever draft pick in 1966 and setting the standard for defensive excellence. Known as “Mr. Falcon,” Nobis brought immense intensity and a relentless work ethic to the field.

His playing style was aggressive and hard-hitting, making him a formidable presence in the league.

Nobis was instrumental in establishing the Falcons’ identity during their formative years, quickly becoming a fan favorite. His leadership and on-field performances laid the foundation for future Falcons, making him a legendary figure in the franchise’s history.

• Accolades:
• 5-time Pro Bowler (1966, 1967, 1968, 1970, 1972)
• 2-time All-Pro (1967, 1968)
• NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1966)
• Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor inductee
• Over 1,200 career tackles

5. Roddy White

• Years played for team: 2005–2015
• Position: Wide Receiver
• Height/Weight: 6’0″, 211 lbs

Roddy White, renowned for his reliable hands and competitive spirit, left an indelible mark on the Atlanta Falcons during his 11-year career. Known for his precise route running and impressive ability to make contested catches, White became a cornerstone of the Falcons’ aerial attack.

He was particularly adept at catching key third-down passes, which often extended drives and sparked momentum for the team.

White’s rapport with quarterback Matt Ryan was pivotal in elevating the Falcons’ offense to new heights. He concluded his career as the franchise’s all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns, cementing his place in Falcons history.

• Accolades:
• Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
• 4× Pro Bowl (2008–2011)
• 2× Second-team All-Pro (2010, 2011)
• Falcons’ all-time leader in receptions, yards, and touchdowns
• Led the NFL in receptions in 2010

6. Michael Vick

• Years played for the team: 2001-2006
• Position: Quarterback
• Height/Weight: 6’0″ / 215 lbs

Michael Vick was a revolutionary quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons, known for his extraordinary speed and strong arm. Drafted as the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft, Vick transformed the quarterback position with his dual-threat abilities.

His electrifying playing style excited fans and opponents alike, as he could evade defenders effortlessly or launch a deep pass.

Vick’s standout moment came in the 2002 playoffs when he led the Falcons to a stunning upset over the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. His time with the Falcons forever changed the perception of what a quarterback could achieve on the field.

• Accolades:
• 3× Pro Bowl selection (2002, 2004, 2005)
• NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2010, with Eagles)
• First quarterback to rush for over 1,000 yards in a single season (2006)
• Most career rushing yards by a quarterback in NFL history (until surpassed)

7. Jessie Tuggle

• Years Played for the Team: 1987-2000
• Position: Linebacker
• Height/Weight: 6’0″ / 230 lbs

Jessie Tuggle, known as “The Hammer,” was an indomitable force for the Atlanta Falcons. Playing from 1987 to 2000, Tuggle’s tenacity and physical style of play made him a cornerstone of the Falcons’ defense.

Known for his tackling ability, he led the team in tackles for several seasons and was pivotal during Atlanta’s remarkable 1998 season that culminated in a Super Bowl appearance.

Tuggle became a fan favorite, not just for his on-field performances but also for his leadership and dedication. His legacy endures as one of the greatest players in Falcons’ history.

• Accolades:
• 5-time Pro Bowl selection (1992, 1994, 1995, 1997, 1998)
• Inducted into the Falcons Ring of Honor
• Holds the Falcons’ franchise record for career tackles
• 2-time All-Pro selection
• Member of the NFL’s All-Decade Team (1990s)

8. Jeff Van Note

• Years played for Atlanta Falcons: 1969-1986
• Position: Center
• Height/Weight: 6’2″, 246 lbs

Jeff Van Note is a legendary figure in Atlanta Falcons history, renowned for his steadfast presence on the offensive line. As a center, he was a model of consistency and endurance, playing 18 seasons and appearing in a team-record 155 consecutive games.

Van Note was pivotal in providing reliable protection and stability in the offensive line, contributing notably to the development and success of his teammates.

Known for his intelligence and strategic acumen, he was a favorite among both fans and coaches. His remarkable longevity and dedication left an indelible mark on the franchise.

• Accolades:
• 5× Pro Bowl selection (1974–1975, 1979–1980, 1982)
• Named to the NFL’s All-Decade Team of the 1970s
• Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor inductee

9. Claude Humphrey

• Years Played for Falcons: 1968-1978
• Position: Defensive End
• Height/Weight: 6’4″, 252 lbs

Claude Humphrey was a towering force on the Atlanta Falcons’ defensive line throughout his decade-long career with the team. Renowned for his fierce pass-rushing abilities, Humphrey’s aggressive playing style and relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him one of the most feared defensive ends of his era.

He was instrumental in transforming the Falcons’ defense into a respected unit during the 1970s. A key moment in his career was being instrumental in the Falcons’ first playoff appearance in 1978. Humphrey’s legacy remains intact as a foundational piece of the Falcons’ defensive history.

• Accolades:
• 6× Pro Bowl selection
• 5× First-team All-Pro
• Member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame (inducted in 2014)
• Named to the NFL 1970s All-Decade Team

10. William Andrews

• Years Played for Team: 1979-1983, 1986
• Position: Running back
• Height/Weight: 6 ft 0 in, 205 lbs

William Andrews was a dynamic running back whose powerful playing style left a lasting mark on the Atlanta Falcons. Known for his relentless rushing and remarkable ability to break tackles, Andrews quickly became a fan favorite during his tenure.

His impact was immediate, as he consistently ranked among the league’s top rushers.

Andrews’ career was unfortunately halted by a severe knee injury in 1984, yet his determination saw him return for one final season in 1986. Andrews remains a beloved figure in Falcons history, remembered for his tenacity and significant contributions to the team’s success during the early 1980s.

• Accolades:
• 4× Pro Bowl selection (1980-1983)
• 4× Second-team All-Pro (1980-1983)
• Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor inductee