The Atlanta Falcons, one of the most popular NFL teams, have a rich history of exceptional players who have contributed to the team’s success. Fans of the team have witnessed some of the most outstanding athletes take the field, from Hall of Famers to current superstars. While each player has left their mark on the team in their own way, only a few have cemented their legacy as the greatest of all time.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 5 Atlanta Falcons players in history. These players have not only led the team to significant victories but have also inspired fans with their dedication and perseverance on and off the field.
As we journey through this list, we will explore the remarkable careers of these legends and the impact they have had on the Falcons organization. From explosive running backs to dominant quarterbacks, each player on this list has played an instrumental role in shaping the Falcons into the team we know and love today.
So, let’s dive in and discover the incredible stories of the top 5 Atlanta Falcons players who have etched their names in the history books of this iconic franchise.
5. Michael Vick
Despite an underwhelming end to his time with the Falcons, Michael Vick’s undeniable talent and contribution to the team’s success during his tenure cannot be overlooked. In fact, Vick’s incredible skill on the field makes him worthy of being considered among the top five greatest players in the franchise’s history.
The Falcons selected Vick as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft, and he wasted no time showing why he was worth it. Vick’s dynamic playing style made him a force to be reckoned with on the field. Whether he was throwing the ball for impressive yards or using his legs to outrun defenders, Vick consistently delivered jaw-dropping performances.
Throughout his time with the Falcons, Vick racked up 11,505 passing yards, but it was his 3,859 rushing yards that set him apart from his peers. Vick’s electrifying speed and agility made him one of the most exciting players to watch, and he always kept fans on the edge of their seats.
While his career with the Falcons didn’t end on a high note, it’s hard to ignore the impact he had on the team during his time there. In fact, if he had stayed with the Falcons, there’s no doubt he would have continued to climb the ranks and solidify his place as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.
4. Deion Sanders
One of the best draft picks in the Falcon’s history was in 1989 when they selected Deion Sanders with the fifth overall pick. Sanders only ended up playing five seasons with the team, but his impact on the team during that time was enough to land him on this list.
Sanders was a lockdown corner that opposing quarterbacks wouldn’t try to test because they knew there wasn’t any point. Often when they would test Sanders, it would end in an interception.
Sanders finished his time with the Falcons with 24 interceptions. He was named to three Pro Bowls and made two First-Team All-Pro selections.
3. Matt Ryan
The Atlanta Falcons really should have won their Super Bowl game against the New England Patriots, and if that would have happened, Matt Ryan would be number one on this list. Instead, the Falcons blew a 28-3 lead, which means Ryan is only third.
Ryan was selected with the third overall pick in the 2008 NFL Draft. Since that point, he has given the Falcons a lot of stability at quarterback. Ryan has started 189 games for the Falcons, throwing for 51,186 yards, 321 touchdowns, and 147 interceptions.
Ryan has been named to four Pro Bowls and also was named the NFL MVP one time. In 2008, he was named the Rookie Of the Year.
2. Jeff Van Note
Often time offensive linemen are overlooked when thinking about great players, but there is no overlooking Jeff Van Note and what he did for the Falcons.
Van Note was selected in the 11th round in the 1969 draft, and there were very few expectations surrounding him when he was selected. Not only did he outplay his draft position, but he also became one of the best centers of his generation.
Van Note played in 155 consecutive games with the Falcons, which was a team record. During his 18 years with the team, he was named to six Pro Bowls. When thinking about the best Falcons of all time, Van Note is often overlooked.
1. Tommy Nobis
Tommy Nobis was the first player ever drafted by the Falcons all the way back in the 1965 draft. In his first year in the league, Nobis won Rookie of the Year, quickly becoming one of the best linebackers in the NFL.
From 1966 to 1976, Nobis was the anchor of the Falcon’s defense. Tackles weren’t an official stat when Nobis was a member of the team, but he racked up plenty during his career. He was named to the Pro Bowl five times and one All-Pro team.
Nobis wasn’t given enough credit back when he played, and he still isn’t given enough credit for what he did for the Falcons.
