Atlanta Falcons: Franchise Overview

Introduction

The Atlanta Falcons represent professional football in the heart of the Deep South, carrying the hopes of a passionate fanbase through decades of thrilling highs and heartbreaking lows. Founded in 1966 as an NFL expansion team, the Falcons have established themselves as a mainstay of the league while pursuing the ultimate prize that has thus far eluded them: a Super Bowl championship.

The Falcons’ history is marked by explosive offenses, dynamic playmakers, and dramatic moments that have both exhilarated and devastated their devoted supporters. From the “Grits Blitz” defense of the 1970s to the “Dirty Bird” celebration of 1998, the Michael Vick era’s revolutionary excitement, and the historic 2016 collapse in Super Bowl LI, the Falcons have provided no shortage of memorable moments.

Franchise Identity

Founded: 1965 (awarded); 1966 (first season) Location: Atlanta, Georgia Stadium: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (opened 2017); previously Georgia Dome (1992-2016), Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium (1966-1991) Conference: National Football Conference (NFC) Division: NFC South Team Colors: Red, Black, Silver Mascot: Freddie Falcon

Historical Journey

Early Years (1966-1979)

The Falcons struggled in their early years, posting losing records for their first decade of existence. The franchise’s first winning season came in 1971 under coach Norm Van Brocklin, but sustained success remained elusive. The 1977 team featured the legendary “Grits Blitz” defense that set an NFL record by allowing just 129 points in a 14-game season.

The Bartkowski Era (1980-1985)

Quarterback Steve Bartkowski led the Falcons to their first playoff victories in the early 1980s. The 1980 team won 12 games and captured the NFC West title before losing in the divisional round. Bartkowski’s strong arm and the receiving duo of Alfred Jenkins and Alfred Jackson provided offensive excitement.

The Glanville and June Jones Years (1990-1996)

Coach Jerry Glanville brought a colorful personality and aggressive defense to Atlanta in the early 1990s. The 1991 team reached the divisional round of the playoffs, and the 1995 team won nine games under coach June Jones. Deion Sanders electrified fans as “Prime Time” before departing for San Francisco.

The Dirty Bird Era (1998)

The 1998 season stands as the pinnacle of Falcons football. Under coach Dan Reeves, the team won 14 games and captured the NFC championship, advancing to Super Bowl XXXIII. The “Dirty Bird” celebration dance became a national phenomenon, and running back Jamal Anderson’s 1,846 rushing yards powered the offense.

In Super Bowl XXXIII, the Falcons faced the Denver Broncos but fell 34-19. Despite the loss, the 1998 team remains the standard against which all Falcons teams are measured.

The Michael Vick Era (2001-2006)

The selection of Michael Vick with the first overall pick in 2001 transformed the Falcons. Vick’s unprecedented athleticism and scrambling ability made Atlanta must-watch television and revolutionized the quarterback position. The 2002 team won a playoff game in Green Bay, the first ever road playoff victory at Lambeau Field.

Vick’s off-field issues and subsequent incarceration ended his Falcons career prematurely, costing the franchise its most dynamic player and setting back development for several seasons.

The Matt Ryan Era (2008-2021)

The drafting of Matt Ryan in 2008 brought stability and success to the quarterback position. Ryan became the franchise’s all-time leading passer and guided the Falcons to multiple playoff appearances. The 2012 team won 13 games and reached the NFC Championship Game.

The 2016 season produced the greatest offense in Falcons history. Under MVP Matt Ryan and offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, the team scored 540 points and reached Super Bowl LI. The Falcons led the New England Patriots 28-3 in the third quarter before suffering the greatest collapse in Super Bowl history, losing 34-28 in overtime.

The Current Era (2022-Present)

The Falcons entered a rebuilding phase following Ryan’s departure in 2022. The team has focused on developing young talent while searching for a long-term quarterback solution.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The Falcons moved into Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017, leaving the Georgia Dome after 25 seasons. The new stadium features a retractable roof with a unique eight-panel design that opens and closes like a camera aperture. The stadium also features the world’s largest video board and premium amenities throughout.

Fan Culture

Falcons fans are known for their passion and loyalty despite decades of disappointment. The “Rise Up” slogan embodies the resilience of the fanbase, which has endured more than its share of heartbreak. The Dirty Bird dance remains popular, and game days in Atlanta feature tailgating traditions that reflect Southern hospitality and football passion.

Current Outlook

The Falcons continue to build toward competitiveness in the NFC South. With significant draft capital and salary cap flexibility, the franchise aims to return to playoff contention and finally capture the Super Bowl championship that has eluded them for nearly six decades.

Atlanta Falcons: A History of Flight

The Expansion Years (1966-1979)

The Atlanta Falcons were awarded an NFL franchise on June 30, 1965, bringing professional football to the Deep South. The team played its first season in 1966 at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, posting a 3-11 record under coach Norb Hecker. The expansion franchise struggled as expected, with growing pains typical of new NFL teams.

The early years featured Tommy Nobis, the team’s first draft pick and the 1966 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Nobis became the face of the franchise and a fan favorite, though team success remained elusive. The Falcons posted losing records through their first decade, with their first winning season coming in 1971 under coach Norm Van Brocklin.

The Grits Blitz Era (1977)

The 1977 Falcons fielded one of the greatest defenses in NFL history. Defensive coordinator Jerry Glanville’s aggressive scheme, nicknamed the “Grits Blitz,” produced extraordinary results. The defense allowed just 129 points in 14 games, setting an NFL record that still stands for the fewest points allowed in a season.

Players like Claude Humphrey, Rolland Lawrence, and Don Smith formed the backbone of the unit, while linebackers Greg Brezina and Robert Pennywell provided hard-hitting support. Despite the historic defense, the offense struggled, and the team finished 7-7, missing the playoffs.

The Bartkowski Years (1980-1985)

Quarterback Steve Bartkowski, the first overall pick in 1975, led the Falcons to their first playoff victories in the early 1980s. The 1980 team won 12 games and captured the NFC West title, defeating the Eagles in the divisional round before losing to Dallas in the NFC Championship Game.

Bartkowski’s strong arm connected with receivers Alfred Jenkins and Alfred Jackson, creating an explosive passing attack. However, the team could not sustain its success, and Bartkowski’s career was hampered by injuries.

The Glanville Era (1990-1993)

Jerry Glanville returned to Atlanta as head coach in 1990, bringing his entertaining personality and aggressive defense. The 1991 team reached the divisional round of the playoffs, upsetting New Orleans before losing to Washington. Deion Sanders provided excitement as “Prime Time,” though his relationship with Glanville was often strained.

The Glanville era was marked by close games and memorable moments, but consistent success remained elusive. The coach’s colorful personality and willingness to take risks made the Falcons entertaining, even when they fell short.

The Dirty Bird Championship Run (1998)

The 1998 season transformed the Falcons from perennial also-rans to NFC champions. Coach Dan Reeves, who had taken over mid-season in 1997, guided the team to a 14-2 regular season record. Running back Jamal Anderson rushed for 1,846 yards and scored 16 touchdowns, while the “Dirty Bird” touchdown celebration became a national phenomenon.

In the playoffs, the Falcons defeated San Francisco in a dramatic divisional round game and upset the 15-1 Minnesota Vikings in overtime of the NFC Championship Game. Morten Andersen’s field goal sent Atlanta to its first Super Bowl.

Super Bowl XXXIII against the Denver Broncos was anticlimactic. The Falcons lost 34-19, with quarterback Chris Chandler struggling and the defense unable to stop Denver’s offense. Despite the loss, the 1998 team remains the standard for Falcons football.

The Michael Vick Era (2001-2006)

The selection of Michael Vick with the first overall pick in 2001 brought unprecedented excitement to Atlanta. Vick’s athleticism and scrambling ability revolutionized the quarterback position and made the Falcons must-watch television. The 2002 team won a playoff game in Green Bay, the first ever road playoff victory at Lambeau Field.

Vick’s off-field issues came to a head in 2007 when he was indicted on federal dog fighting charges. He subsequently served prison time, and his Falcons career ended in disgrace. The scandal set back the franchise significantly.

The Matt Ryan Era (2008-2021)

The drafting of Matt Ryan in 2008 brought stability and success to the quarterback position. Ryan became the franchise’s all-time leading passer and guided the Falcons to six playoff appearances in his tenure. The 2012 team won 13 games and reached the NFC Championship Game, losing to San Francisco.

The 2016 season produced the greatest offense in Falcons history. Ryan won the NFL MVP award, and the team scored 540 points under offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan. The Falcons reached Super Bowl LI with a dominant playoff run.

Super Bowl LI: The Greatest Collapse

Super Bowl LI in Houston began perfectly for the Falcons. They led the New England Patriots 28-3 in the third quarter, appearing destined for their first championship. However, the Patriots mounted the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, tying the game and winning 34-28 in overtime.

The loss devastated the franchise and fanbase. The offensive play-calling in the fourth quarter was widely criticized, and the collapse had lasting effects on the team’s psyche. The Falcons have not won a playoff game since.

Recent History (2017-Present)

The post-Super Bowl years have been challenging. Kyle Shanahan departed for San Francisco, and the offense has never recaptured its 2016 form. The team moved into Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017 but has struggled to fill the spectacular venue consistently.

Matt Ryan was traded to Indianapolis in 2022, beginning a new era. The Falcons have focused on rebuilding with young talent while searching for a long-term quarterback solution.

Atlanta Falcons: Championships and Playoff History

Super Bowl Appearances (2)

Super Bowl XXXIII (1998 Season)

The 1998 Atlanta Falcons achieved the greatest success in franchise history, winning the NFC Championship and advancing to Super Bowl XXXIII. Under coach Dan Reeves, the team finished the regular season 14-2, capturing the NFC West title and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.

Playoff Journey: - Divisional Round: Falcons 20, San Francisco 49ers 18 - NFC Championship: Falcons 30, Minnesota Vikings 27 (OT) - Super Bowl XXXIII: Denver Broncos 34, Falcons 19

The NFC Championship Game against the 15-1 Minnesota Vikings stands as the greatest victory in franchise history. The Falcons overcame a 13-point deficit in the fourth quarter, with Morten Andersen’s 38-yard field goal in overtime sending Atlanta to the Super Bowl.

In Super Bowl XXXIII against the Denver Broncos, the Falcons struggled to contain Denver’s offense and committed four turnovers. Despite the loss, the 1998 season remains the standard against which all Falcons teams are measured.

Super Bowl LI (2016 Season)

The 2016 Falcons produced the greatest offense in franchise history, with Matt Ryan winning NFL MVP and the team scoring 540 points. Under offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, Atlanta dominated opponents throughout the regular season and playoffs.

Playoff Journey: - Divisional Round: Falcons 36, Seattle Seahawks 20 - NFC Championship: Falcons 44, Green Bay Packers 21 - Super Bowl LI: New England Patriots 34, Falcons 28 (OT)

Super Bowl LI in Houston began perfectly for the Falcons. They led the New England Patriots 28-3 in the third quarter, appearing destined for their first championship. However, the Patriots mounted the greatest comeback in Super Bowl history, tying the game and winning 34-28 in overtime. The loss represents the most devastating defeat in Falcons history.

Conference Championships (2)

The Falcons have won the NFC Championship twice: - 1998: Defeated Minnesota Vikings 30-27 in overtime - 2016: Defeated Green Bay Packers 44-21

Division Championships (6)

NFC West (3): 1980, 1998, 2004 NFC South (3): 2010, 2012, 2016

Playoff Appearances (14)

The Falcons have qualified for the playoffs 14 times in franchise history, with their most recent appearance in 2017.

Notable Playoff Performances

Matt Ryan: 10 postseason games, 2,244 passing yards, 18 TDs, 7 INTs Julio Jones: 10 postseason games, 1,043 receiving yards, 5 TDs Michael Vick: 5 postseason games, 1,070 total yards, 4 total TDs

Atlanta Falcons: Notable Players

Hall of Famers

Deion Sanders (CB/PR, 1989-1993)

“Prime Time” revolutionized the cornerback position and provided excitement on and off the field. His combination of speed, coverage skills, and return ability made him one of the NFL’s most dynamic players.

Claude Humphrey (DE, 1968-1978)

The defensive end was a dominant pass rusher and the anchor of the “Grits Blitz” defense. He recorded 94.5 sacks in his Falcons career and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2014.

Franchise Icons

Matt Ryan (QB, 2008-2021)

The franchise’s all-time leader in passing yards (59,797) and touchdowns (367). Ryan won NFL MVP in 2016 and led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI.

Julio Jones (WR, 2011-2020)

One of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history, Jones holds Falcons records for receiving yards (12,896) and receptions (848). He led the league in receiving yards twice.

Michael Vick (QB, 2001-2006)

Revolutionized the quarterback position with his rushing ability. His 1,039 rushing yards in 2006 set a single-season record for quarterbacks.

Roddy White (WR, 2005-2015)

The franchise’s all-time leader in receptions at the time of his retirement. White had six consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.

Tommy Nobis (LB, 1966-1976)

The Falcons’ first-ever draft pick and the 1966 Defensive Rookie of the Year. Nobis was a hard-hitting linebacker who became the face of the franchise in its early years.

Jamal Anderson (RB, 1994-2001)

The driving force of the 1998 Super Bowl team. Anderson rushed for 1,846 yards in 1998 and created the “Dirty Bird” celebration.

Recent Stars

Grady Jarrett (DT, 2015-present)

A dominant defensive tackle and team leader. Jarrett has been selected to multiple Pro Bowls and is the defensive cornerstone of the current team.

Kyle Pitts (TE, 2021-present)

The talented tight end was selected fourth overall in 2021 and set rookie records for the position.

Retired Numbers

The Falcons have retired number 10 (Steve Bartkowski) and number 60 (Tommy Nobis).

Atlanta Falcons: Team Records

Career Records

Passing Yards: Matt Ryan - 59,797 Passing TDs: Matt Ryan - 367 Rushing Yards: Gerald Riggs - 6,631 Rushing TDs: Michael Turner - 60 Receptions: Julio Jones - 848 Receiving Yards: Julio Jones - 12,896 Receiving TDs: Terrence Mathis - 57 Sacks: Claude Humphrey - 94.5 Interceptions: Rolland Lawrence - 39

Single-Season Records

Passing Yards: Matt Ryan - 4,944 (2016) Passing TDs: Matt Ryan - 38 (2016) Rushing Yards: Jamal Anderson - 1,846 (1998) Rushing TDs: Michael Turner - 17 (2008) Receptions: Julio Jones - 136 (2015) Receiving Yards: Julio Jones - 1,871 (2015) Receiving TDs: Andre Rison - 15 (1993) Sacks: John Abraham - 16.5 (2008)

Team Season Records

Most Wins: 14 (1998) Most Points Scored: 540 (2016) Fewest Points Allowed: 129 (1977) Best Record: 14-2 (1998)

Atlanta Falcons: Fan Culture and Traditions

Rise Up

The Falcons’ rallying cry “Rise Up” embodies the resilience of the fanbase. Adopted in 2010, the slogan encourages fans to support the team through good times and bad.

The Dirty Bird

The “Dirty Bird” dance became a phenomenon during the 1998 Super Bowl season. Created by running back Jamal Anderson, the dance involves flapping arms like wings and became a symbol of that magical season.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium

The Falcons moved into Mercedes-Benz Stadium in 2017. The stadium features a retractable roof and the world’s largest video board, creating an impressive game day experience.

Fan Traditions

Falcons fans are known for their passionate support despite decades of disappointment. The fanbase has endured the Super Bowl LI collapse but remains loyal and hopeful.

Rivalries

New Orleans Saints: The Falcons-Saints rivalry is one of the NFL’s most heated divisional matchups. Carolina Panthers: Another NFC South rivalry with competitive games. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The divisional rivalry has intensified with Tampa Bay’s recent success.

Atlanta Falcons: Current Status

Recent Performance (2022-2024)

The Falcons have been in rebuilding mode since trading Matt Ryan in 2022. The team has focused on developing young talent while searching for a long-term quarterback solution.

Roster Overview

The Falcons have invested in offensive weapons including tight end Kyle Pitts and wide receiver Drake London. Running back Bijan Robinson was selected in the first round of the 2023 draft.

Front Office

General manager Terry Fontenot and head coach Arthur Smith are leading the rebuild. The team has significant salary cap flexibility and draft capital.

Future Outlook

The Falcons are positioned to make a significant jump when they find their franchise quarterback. The offensive weapons and young talent on defense provide hope for the future.