The Greatest Atlanta Falcons of All Time

The Atlanta Falcons have a rich and storied history dating back to their inception in 1966. As one of the NFL's oldest franchises, the Falcons have seen their fair share of legendary players don the red and black over the decades. From record-breaking quarterbacks to bone-crushing defenders, the Falcons' roster is littered with all-time greats who have left an indelible mark on the organization and the city of Atlanta.

In this comprehensive retrospective, we will honor the greatest Falcons players to ever step on the gridiron. Through a meticulous evaluation of statistical achievements, team success, cultural impact, and lasting legacy, we will determine the true icons of Falcons football. This list will not only celebrate the franchise's past but also inspire the next generation of Falcons stars to follow in the footsteps of these immortal legends.

Methodology for Selection

Compiling a list of the greatest Falcons of all time is no easy task, as the franchise has been blessed with a wealth of talented players over the years. To ensure a fair and objective assessment, we have established a set of criteria to guide the selection process:

Statistical Achievements

Raw numbers and statistical dominance are a crucial factor in determining greatness. We will examine key offensive, defensive, and special teams metrics to identify the players who have set the bar for excellence in their respective positions.

Impact on Team Success

While individual accolades are important, the true measure of a player's worth is their ability to elevate their team's performance and contribute to winning. We will give significant weight to players who have been integral parts of Falcons teams that have achieved postseason success and championship contention.

Legacy and Cultural Significance

Beyond the numbers and wins, the greatest Falcons players have left an indelible mark on the franchise's history and the city of Atlanta. We will consider a player's lasting impact on the team's identity, their influence on future generations, and their place in the hearts and minds of Falcons fans.

With these guiding principles in mind, let us embark on a journey to uncover the true legends of the Falcons' illustrious past.

Offensive Greats

Quarterbacks

The quarterback position has been a source of both triumph and frustration for the Falcons over the years. However, a select few signal-callers have risen above the rest and cemented their legacies as all-time Falcons greats.

1. Matt Ryan The face of the Falcons franchise for the better part of the 21st century, Matt Ryan has rewritten the team's record books with his prolific passing numbers and consistent excellence. A four-time Pro Bowler and the 2016 NFL MVP, Ryan led the Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance and has been the driving force behind the team's sustained success in the modern era.

2. Michael Vick A true game-changer at the quarterback position, Michael Vick's electrifying athleticism and playmaking ability captivated Falcons fans and the entire NFL. Despite his off-field controversies, Vick's dual-threat dominance and highlight-reel moments have cemented his status as one of the most iconic Falcons of all time.

3. Steve Bartkowski The Falcons' first true franchise quarterback, Steve Bartkowski was a two-time Pro Bowler who guided the team to its first-ever playoff appearance in 1978. Possessing a cannon for an arm and the intelligence to dissect defenses, Bartkowski laid the foundation for the Falcons' passing attack and paved the way for future signal-callers.

Running Backs

The Falcons have been blessed with a rich history of dominant running backs, each leaving an indelible mark on the franchise's legacy.

1. Michael Turner Affectionately known as "The Burner," Michael Turner was a bruising, downhill runner who spearheaded the Falcons' offense during the team's most successful stretch in the late 2000s. A two-time Pro Bowler and the 2008 NFL rushing touchdown leader, Turner's punishing style and game-breaking ability made him a fan favorite and a cornerstone of the Falcons' offense.

2. Warrick Dunn A versatile and elusive back, Warrick Dunn was a dynamic playmaker who excelled both as a runner and a receiver. A three-time Pro Bowler and the 2005 NFL Comeback Player of the Year, Dunn's contributions extended beyond the stat sheet, as he was a pillar of the Atlanta community and a true ambassador for the Falcons franchise.

3. William Andrews One of the most underrated running backs in Falcons history, William Andrews was a dominant force in the backfield during the late 1970s and early 1980s. A four-time Pro Bowler, Andrews was a workhorse who combined power, speed, and pass-catching ability, making him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

Wide Receivers

The Falcons have been blessed with a plethora of talented wide receivers over the years, each leaving an indelible mark on the franchise's passing attack.

1. Julio Jones A physical freak of nature and one of the most dominant wide receivers of the modern era, Julio Jones has rewritten the Falcons' record books with his jaw-dropping production and game-breaking ability. A seven-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-Team All-Pro, Jones' combination of size, speed, and athleticism has made him a perennial threat and a surefire future Hall of Famer.

2. Roddy White The Falcons' all-time leading receiver, Roddy White was a consistent and reliable target who formed a dynamic duo with Matt Ryan for nearly a decade. A four-time Pro Bowler and the 2010 NFL receiving yards leader, White's toughness, route-running, and clutch performances cemented his status as one of the greatest Falcons of all time.

3. Andre Rison A flamboyant and electrifying playmaker, Andre Rison was a dominant force in the Falcons' passing attack during the early 1990s. A five-time Pro Bowler and the 1993 NFL receiving touchdowns leader, Rison's combination of speed, athleticism, and flair made him a fan favorite and one of the most dynamic receivers in Falcons history.

Offensive Linemen

While the skill position players often garner the headlines, the unsung heroes of the Falcons' offense have been the dominant offensive linemen who have paved the way for the team's success.

1. Jeff Van Note A true iron man of the Falcons' offensive line, Jeff Van Note started a franchise-record 201 consecutive games over the course of his 18-year career. A six-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Falcons' Ring of Honor, Van Note's durability, consistency, and excellence at the center position made him a cornerstone of the team's offense for nearly two decades.

2. Mike Kenn A towering presence at left tackle, Mike Kenn was a stalwart of the Falcons' offensive line for 17 seasons. A five-time Pro Bowler and a member of the NFL's All-Decade Team for the 1980s, Kenn's combination of size, strength, and technique made him one of the premier left tackles of his era and a crucial protector of the Falcons' quarterbacks.

3. Chris Hinton A dominant force on the interior of the offensive line, Chris Hinton was a seven-time Pro Bowler who anchored the Falcons' offensive trenches for nearly a decade. Renowned for his power, agility, and intelligence, Hinton was a key cog in the Falcons' ground-and-pound attack and a vital component of the team's success in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Defensive Standouts

Defensive Linemen

The Falcons' defensive line has been a source of strength throughout the franchise's history, with several dominant players leaving an indelible mark on the team's defensive identity.

1. Claude Humphrey A ferocious pass-rusher and a terror for opposing offenses, Claude Humphrey was a dominant force on the Falcons' defensive line. A six-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Humphrey's relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ability to disrupt the backfield made him one of the most feared defenders in the NFL during his era.

2. Jonathan Babineaux A versatile and disruptive defensive tackle, Jonathan Babineaux was the anchor of the Falcons' defensive line for over a decade. A consistent and reliable presence, Babineaux's combination of strength, technique, and high motor made him a valuable asset in both run defense and pass-rushing situations.

3. John Zook A fierce and tenacious defensive end, John Zook was a key contributor to the Falcons' defensive success in the 1970s. A two-time Pro Bowler, Zook's relentless pursuit of the quarterback and his ability to stuff the run made him a cornerstone of the Falcons' defensive front and a fan favorite during his time in Atlanta.

Linebackers

The linebacker position has been a source of strength for the Falcons, with several standout players leaving their mark on the franchise's defensive legacy.

1. Tommy Nobis Widely regarded as the first true superstar of the Falcons franchise, Tommy Nobis was a dominant middle linebacker who set the tone for the team's defense. A five-time Pro Bowler and the 1966 NFL Rookie of the Year, Nobis' combination of size, strength, and instincts made him a force to be reckoned with and a true icon of Falcons football.

2. Jessie Tuggle A hard-hitting and relentless linebacker, Jessie Tuggle was the heart and soul of the Falcons' defense for over a decade. A five-time Pro Bowler and the 1998 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, Tuggle's sideline-to-sideline speed, tackling ability, and leadership made him a beloved figure among Falcons fans and a key contributor to the team's success.

3. Keith Brooking A versatile and intelligent linebacker, Keith Brooking was a consistent and reliable presence in the Falcons' defensive unit for over a decade. A five-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Falcons' Ring of Honor, Brooking's ability to make plays in both the run and pass game, as well as his leadership and community involvement, cemented his status as one of the greatest Falcons of his era.

Defensive Backs

The Falcons' secondary has been home to several dominant and game-changing defensive backs who have left an indelible mark on the franchise's history.

1. Deion Sanders One of the most electrifying and dynamic players in NFL history, Deion Sanders was a true game-changer during his time with the Falcons. A two-time Defensive Player of the Year and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, "Prime Time" was a shutdown cornerback whose combination of speed, athleticism, and playmaking ability made him a nightmare for opposing offenses and a fan favorite in Atlanta.

2. Keion Carpenter A hard-hitting and physical safety, Keion Carpenter was the backbone of the Falcons' secondary during the late 1990s and early 2000s. A two-time Pro Bowler, Carpenter's ability to make plays in the run game, his coverage skills, and his leadership on the field made him a vital component of the Falcons' defensive success.

3. Rolland Lawrence A ball-hawking cornerback with a knack for making game-changing plays, Rolland Lawrence was a dominant force in the Falcons' secondary during the 1970s. A three-time Pro Bowler, Lawrence's combination of instincts, technique, and ball skills made him a constant thorn in the side of opposing quarterbacks and a key contributor to the Falcons' defensive prowess.

Special Teams Aces

Kickers

While the kicking game is often overlooked, the Falcons have been blessed with several exceptional specialists who have made crucial contributions to the team's success.

1. Morten Andersen A true legend of the NFL, Morten Andersen spent the majority of his illustrious career with the Falcons, cementing his status as one of the greatest kickers in franchise history. A seven-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Andersen's accuracy, consistency, and clutch performances made him a reliable weapon in the Falcons' arsenal for over a decade.

2. Jason Elam A late-career addition to the Falcons, Jason Elam brought his proven track record of excellence to Atlanta and solidified the team's kicking game. A three-time Pro Bowler and a member of the Falcons' Ring of Honor, Elam's powerful leg and ice-cold nerves under pressure made him a valuable asset for the Falcons during their playoff runs in the late 2000s.

Punters

While often overlooked, the Falcons have been fortunate to have several exceptional punters who have played a crucial role in the team's success.

1. John James A consistent and reliable punter, John James spent the majority of his career with the Falcons, establishing himself as one of the franchise's all-time greats. A two-time Pro Bowler, James' ability to pin opposing offenses deep in their own territory and his contributions to the Falcons' special teams unit made him a valuable asset for the team.

2. Michael Koenen A versatile specialist who excelled as both a punter and a kickoff specialist, Michael Koenen was a key contributor to the Falcons' special teams unit for over a decade. A Pro Bowler in 2005, Koenen's booming leg and his ability to consistently flip the field position made him an integral part of the Falcons' success during his tenure with the team.

Return Specialists

The Falcons have been home to several dynamic return specialists who have electrified the crowd and provided game-changing plays for the team.

1. Allen Rossum A lightning-fast and elusive return specialist, Allen Rossum was a constant threat to opposing teams during his time with the Falcons. A two-time Pro Bowler and the 2003 NFL Kickoff Return Touchdown leader, Rossum's ability to break open games with his explosive return skills made him a fan favorite and a valuable weapon in the Falcons' arsenal.

2. Devin Hester One of the most dominant return specialists in NFL history, Devin Hester spent the twilight of his career with the Falcons, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players to ever don the red and black. A four-time Pro Bowler and the NFL's all-time leader in return touchdowns, Hester's game-breaking ability and his knack for making game-changing plays made him a true icon of Falcons football.

Coaches and Front Office

Head Coaches

The Falcons' sideline has been graced by several exceptional head coaches who have left an indelible mark on the franchise's history.

1. Dan Reeves A legendary figure in the NFL, Dan Reeves guided the Falcons to their first-ever Super Bowl appearance in 1998, cementing his status as one of the greatest coaches in franchise history. A four-time Super Bowl champion as a player and a coach, Reeves' strategic acumen, player development, and ability to maximize the talent on his roster made him a transformative figure for the Falcons.

2. Mike Smith The winningest head coach in Falcons history, Mike Smith led the team to five playoff appearances and a Super Bowl berth during his seven-year tenure. Known for his disciplined approach, player-friendly demeanor, and ability to build a consistent winner, Smith's impact on the Falcons' sustained success in the late 2000s and early 2010s cannot be overstated.

3. Jim Mora A fiery and passionate leader, Jim Mora guided the Falcons to their first-ever NFC Championship game appearance in 2004, sparking a new era of excitement and optimism for the franchise. Mora's aggressive defensive philosophy, his ability to get the most out of his players, and his infectious energy made him a beloved figure among Falcons fans during his time as the team's head coach.

Coordinators

While head coaches often receive the lion's share of the credit, the Falcons have been fortunate to have several exceptional coordinators who have played a vital role in the team's success.

1. Kyle Shanahan (Offensive Coordinator) The architect of the Falcons' record-breaking offense in 2016, Kyle Shanahan's innovative schemes and player-friendly approach made him a key figure in the team's run to the Super Bowl. Shanahan's ability to maximize the talents of Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, and the rest of the Falcons' offensive stars ce