The Atlanta Falcons have built a distinctive legacy in professional football, from their beginnings as an NFL expansion franchise in 1966 to unforgettable playoff runs, legendary players, and two Super Bowl appearances.
Known for their red, black, and white uniforms, passionate fan base, and explosive offensive stars, the Falcons have produced some of the most memorable moments in modern NFL history.
From the famous "Dirty Bird" team of 1998 to the electrifying Michael Vick era and the record-setting partnership of Matt Ryan and Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons history is filled with remarkable achievements, dramatic victories, and unforgettable personalities.
When Were the Atlanta Falcons Founded?
The Atlanta Falcons were established in 1965 and began playing in the National Football League during the 1966 season.
Atlanta businessman Rankin M. Smith Sr. became the franchise's original owner, helping bring professional NFL football to the city.
The Falcons were among the NFL's early expansion franchises during a period of significant growth for professional football.
The team played its first regular-season game on September 11, 1966, against the Los Angeles Rams.
Although Atlanta struggled during its inaugural season, the franchise established a foundation for professional football in Georgia.
How Did the Atlanta Falcons Get Their Name?
The Falcons name was selected through a public naming contest before the franchise's inaugural season.
The winning submission came from Julia Elliott, a schoolteacher from Griffin, Georgia, who described the falcon as a proud, courageous bird that never drops its prey.
The name reflected the speed, determination, and competitive spirit the new franchise hoped to establish.
Over time, the falcon became one of the NFL's recognizable team symbols, appearing on helmets, uniforms, merchandise, and sports memorabilia.
Atlanta Falcons History in the 1960s and 1970s
The Falcons' early years were challenging as the expansion franchise worked to build a competitive roster.
Atlanta played its home games at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, which also hosted Major League Baseball's Atlanta Braves.
During the 1970s, the Falcons began developing an identity built around defensive football and emerging stars.
The Grits Blitz Defense of 1977
One of the most notable early achievements in Falcons history came during the 1977 season.
Atlanta's defense, nicknamed the "Grits Blitz," allowed just 129 points during a 14-game regular season.
That remarkable total remains an NFL record for the fewest points allowed in a 14-game season.
Although the Falcons finished 7-7 and missed the playoffs, the defense earned a lasting place in NFL history.
Atlanta's First Playoff Appearance in 1978
In 1978, the Falcons reached the NFL playoffs for the first time.
Atlanta defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 14-13 in the NFC Wild Card round before losing to the Dallas Cowboys in the divisional round.
The postseason appearance represented an important milestone for a franchise still establishing itself in the NFL.
Atlanta Falcons History in the 1980s
The 1980s introduced several memorable players and moments in Falcons history.
Steve Bartkowski and the Falcons Offense
Quarterback Steve Bartkowski, selected first overall in the 1975 NFL Draft, became one of Atlanta's most important early offensive players.
Bartkowski developed into a prolific passer and helped lead the Falcons to playoff appearances in 1978 and 1980.
He earned Pro Bowl recognition and became a foundational figure in the franchise's quarterback history.
The 1980 NFC West Championship
Atlanta finished the 1980 regular season with a 12-4 record and won the NFC West division title.
The Falcons entered the postseason with high expectations but suffered a heartbreaking 30-27 divisional playoff loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite the defeat, the season represented one of the franchise's strongest early campaigns.
William Andrews and Gerald Riggs
Running backs William Andrews and Gerald Riggs helped establish Atlanta's tradition of powerful offensive play.
Andrews became known for his versatility, physical running style, and receiving ability.
Riggs later emerged as one of the NFL's most productive running backs during the mid-1980s.
Deion Sanders and the Atlanta Falcons
In the 1989 NFL Draft, Atlanta selected cornerback Deion Sanders with the fifth overall pick.
Nicknamed "Prime Time," Sanders became one of the most recognizable athletes in professional sports.
His exceptional speed, coverage ability, and confidence made him a standout defensive player and return specialist.
Sanders played for the Falcons from 1989 through 1993 before continuing his Hall of Fame career with other NFL teams.
His Atlanta years remain an important part of Falcons history, and his signed football memorabilia continues to interest collectors.
The 1998 Atlanta Falcons: The Dirty Bird Era
The 1998 Atlanta Falcons produced one of the most celebrated seasons in franchise history.
Led by head coach Dan Reeves, Atlanta finished the regular season with a 14-2 record and captured the NFC West division title.
The team became famous for its physical running game, opportunistic defense, and the popular "Dirty Bird" touchdown celebration.
Jamal Anderson and the Dirty Bird Dance
Running back Jamal Anderson was the centerpiece of Atlanta's offense.
During the 1998 regular season, Anderson rushed for 1,846 yards and 14 touchdowns.
His memorable touchdown celebration, known as the Dirty Bird, became a defining symbol of the team's success.
1998 NFC Championship Victory
On January 17, 1999, Atlanta faced the Minnesota Vikings in the NFC Championship Game.
The Vikings entered with a 15-1 regular-season record and one of the NFL's most explosive offenses.
Atlanta rallied to defeat Minnesota 30-27 in overtime, earning the franchise's first trip to the Super Bowl.
Super Bowl XXXIII
The Falcons faced the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXXIII on January 31, 1999.
Denver defeated Atlanta 34-19, securing its second consecutive Super Bowl championship.
Although the Falcons did not win the title, their 1998 season remains one of the franchise's greatest achievements.
The Michael Vick Era: 2001–2006
The Atlanta Falcons selected quarterback Michael Vick with the first overall pick in the 2001 NFL Draft.
Vick quickly became one of the NFL's most electrifying players, combining extraordinary speed, arm strength, and improvisational ability.
His playing style helped transform expectations for what a mobile NFL quarterback could accomplish.
2002 Playoff Victory at Lambeau Field
During the 2002 season, Vick helped Atlanta reach the playoffs.
The Falcons defeated the Green Bay Packers 27-7 in the Wild Card round, becoming the first visiting team to win a postseason game at Lambeau Field.
The victory remains one of the franchise's most memorable playoff achievements.
2004 NFC Championship Appearance
In 2004, Atlanta finished the regular season 11-5 and advanced to the NFC Championship Game.
The Falcons ultimately lost to the Philadelphia Eagles, but the season reinforced Vick's status as one of the league's most exciting quarterbacks.
Michael Vick's Rushing Records
In 2006, Vick became the first quarterback in NFL history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in a single regular season.
His ability to create explosive plays as both a passer and runner made him a distinctive figure in Falcons history.
Vick's Atlanta tenure ended amid serious legal problems stemming from his involvement in a dogfighting operation. He pleaded guilty to a federal conspiracy charge in 2007 and served prison time before eventually returning to the NFL with Philadelphia.
Matt Ryan: A New Era for the Atlanta Falcons
In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Falcons selected Boston College quarterback Matt Ryan with the third overall pick.
Ryan quickly became the foundation of Atlanta's offense and helped lead the franchise into an extended period of competitive success.
Nicknamed "Matty Ice," Ryan became known for his leadership, accuracy, and ability to perform under pressure.
2008 Offensive Rookie of the Year
Ryan made an immediate impact during his rookie season.
He helped Atlanta finish 11-5 and return to the playoffs after a difficult 2007 season.
Ryan earned the Associated Press NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
2012 NFC Championship Appearance
During the 2012 season, Ryan led Atlanta to a 13-3 regular-season record.
The Falcons advanced to the NFC Championship Game but lost to the San Francisco 49ers 28-24.
The season established Atlanta as one of the NFC's leading contenders.
Julio Jones: One of the Greatest Falcons Receivers
In the 2011 NFL Draft, Atlanta traded up to select wide receiver Julio Jones with the sixth overall pick.
Jones developed into one of the most dominant receivers of his generation.
His combination of size, speed, route-running ability, and spectacular catches made him a centerpiece of Atlanta's offense.
Julio Jones' Record-Setting Career
Jones produced numerous memorable performances during his time with the Falcons.
He led the NFL in receiving yards in 2015 and 2018 and earned multiple All-Pro and Pro Bowl selections.
His partnership with Matt Ryan became one of the most productive quarterback-receiver combinations in NFL history.
Jones finished his Falcons career with 12,896 receiving yards, establishing himself as the franchise's all-time leader in the category.
The 2016 Atlanta Falcons and Super Bowl LI
The 2016 Atlanta Falcons produced another historic season.
Led by head coach Dan Quinn, quarterback Matt Ryan, and offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, Atlanta developed the NFL's highest-scoring offense.
The Falcons finished the regular season 11-5 and advanced through the NFC playoffs.
Matt Ryan Wins NFL MVP
Ryan delivered the best statistical season of his career in 2016.
He passed for 4,944 yards and 38 touchdowns while leading the NFL with a 117.1 passer rating.
His performance earned him the Associated Press NFL Most Valuable Player award and Offensive Player of the Year honors.
2016 NFC Championship Victory
Atlanta defeated the Green Bay Packers 44-21 in the NFC Championship Game on January 22, 2017.
The victory sent the Falcons to their second Super Bowl appearance.
Super Bowl LI: Atlanta vs. New England
On February 5, 2017, the Falcons faced the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LI.
Atlanta built a 28-3 lead during the third quarter, appearing positioned to capture its first Super Bowl championship.
However, New England mounted a historic comeback and defeated Atlanta 34-28 in overtime.
The game became the first Super Bowl decided in overtime and remains one of the most discussed championship games in NFL history.
Despite the loss, the Falcons' 2016 offense and postseason run remain defining chapters in franchise history.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the Modern Falcons
In 2017, the Falcons moved into Mercedes-Benz Stadium in downtown Atlanta.
The venue replaced the Georgia Dome, which had served as the team's home from 1992 through 2016.
Mercedes-Benz Stadium features a distinctive retractable roof, a large circular video display, and modern amenities.
The stadium has become a major destination for NFL games, college football championships, concerts, and other sporting events.
The Atlanta Falcons in the 2020s
The 2020s have brought significant roster changes and a new generation of players to Atlanta.
Following the Matt Ryan era, the franchise began rebuilding around younger offensive talent and new leadership.
Bijan Robinson
The Falcons selected running back Bijan Robinson with the eighth overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft.
Robinson quickly became a central figure in Atlanta's offense, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and receiver.
Drake London
Atlanta selected wide receiver Drake London with the eighth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft.
London emerged as an important receiving target, bringing size, physicality, and contested-catch ability to the Falcons' passing game.
Michael Penix Jr.
The Falcons selected quarterback Michael Penix Jr. with the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.
Penix arrived after a remarkable college career at Washington, where he helped lead the Huskies to the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
His selection marked another important chapter in Atlanta's ongoing efforts to build a competitive roster.
Learn more about his journey in our Michael Penix Jr. Career Tribute.
Atlanta Falcons Super Bowl Appearances
Through the 2025 NFL season, the Atlanta Falcons have appeared in two Super Bowls.
| Season | Super Bowl | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | Super Bowl XXXIII | Denver Broncos | Lost 34-19 |
| 2016 | Super Bowl LI | New England Patriots | Lost 34-28 (OT) |
Although the franchise has not yet won a Super Bowl championship, its two NFC championship seasons remain important milestones in Atlanta sports history.
Greatest Players in Atlanta Falcons History
Many outstanding players have contributed to the Falcons' identity across different generations.
Matt Ryan
The franchise's longtime quarterback, 2016 NFL MVP, and all-time leader in passing yards and passing touchdowns.
Julio Jones
A dominant wide receiver and Atlanta's all-time receiving yards leader.
Deion Sanders
A Hall of Fame cornerback and return specialist who began his NFL career with Atlanta.
Michael Vick
A dynamic dual-threat quarterback whose speed and rushing ability changed the way many fans viewed the position.
Steve Bartkowski
One of Atlanta's first great quarterbacks and a central figure in the franchise's early playoff success.
Roddy White
A productive and reliable receiver who helped establish Atlanta's passing attack during the Matt Ryan era.
Jamal Anderson
The star running back of the 1998 Dirty Bird team and one of the most recognizable players in franchise history.
Claude Humphrey
A Hall of Fame defensive end who became one of the Falcons' earliest defensive stars.
Jessie Tuggle
A longtime Atlanta linebacker and fan favorite known for his toughness, leadership, and tackling ability.
Tommy Nobis
The first player selected in Falcons franchise history, chosen first overall in the 1966 NFL Draft.
Atlanta Falcons Franchise Timeline
| Year | Historic Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1965 | Atlanta receives an NFL expansion franchise |
| 1966 | Falcons begin their inaugural NFL season |
| 1977 | Grits Blitz defense allows just 129 points |
| 1978 | First franchise playoff appearance and postseason victory |
| 1980 | Falcons win NFC West division title |
| 1989 | Atlanta drafts Deion Sanders |
| 1998 | Dirty Bird team wins NFC championship |
| 1999 | Falcons appear in Super Bowl XXXIII |
| 2001 | Atlanta drafts Michael Vick first overall |
| 2008 | Falcons draft Matt Ryan |
| 2011 | Atlanta drafts Julio Jones |
| 2016 | Matt Ryan wins NFL MVP; Falcons win NFC championship |
| 2017 | Falcons play in Super Bowl LI and open Mercedes-Benz Stadium |
| 2022 | Atlanta drafts Drake London |
| 2023 | Atlanta drafts Bijan Robinson |
| 2024 | Atlanta drafts Michael Penix Jr. |
Atlanta Falcons Autographed Memorabilia
Atlanta Falcons history offers collectors an extensive selection of memorable players, championship moments, and iconic football achievements.
From vintage collectibles associated with Deion Sanders and Steve Bartkowski to signed jerseys and helmets featuring Matt Ryan, Julio Jones, Michael Vick, and modern Falcons stars, the franchise has a rich memorabilia tradition.
Popular Types of Atlanta Falcons Memorabilia
- Autographed Falcons jerseys: Signed jerseys featuring legendary and current Atlanta players.
- Autographed full-size helmets: Display-worthy helmets featuring Falcons signatures and team designs.
- Signed mini helmets: Compact collectibles popular with football fans and autograph collectors.
- Autographed footballs: Signed NFL footballs commemorating notable Falcons players.
- Signed photographs: Images capturing memorable catches, touchdowns, and historic franchise moments.
- Framed memorabilia: Display pieces featuring autographs, photographs, and football achievements.
What Makes Atlanta Falcons Memorabilia Valuable?
Several factors can influence the collectible value of signed Falcons memorabilia:
- Player popularity and historical significance
- Signature authenticity and third-party authentication
- Condition and presentation of the item
- Rarity and limited-edition status
- Connection to memorable games or championship seasons
- Collector demand
Why Authentication Matters
When purchasing autographed Falcons memorabilia, collectors should review the authentication details provided with each item.
Recognized authentication providers include Beckett Authentication Services (BAS), PSA/DNA, JSA, and Fanatics Authentic.
At Gameday Sports & Memorabilia, we specialize in authenticated sports collectibles backed by our Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee.
Explore our NFL Autographed Jerseys, NFL Autographed Full-Size Helmets, and NFL Autographed Mini Helmets collections.
For additional collecting advice, visit our Sports Memorabilia Collector's Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions About Atlanta Falcons History
When were the Atlanta Falcons founded?
The Atlanta Falcons were established in 1965 and began playing in the NFL during the 1966 season.
How many Super Bowls have the Atlanta Falcons played in?
The Falcons have appeared in two Super Bowls: Super Bowl XXXIII following the 1998 season and Super Bowl LI following the 2016 season.
Have the Atlanta Falcons ever won a Super Bowl?
No. Through the 2025 NFL season, Atlanta has not won a Super Bowl championship.
Who is the greatest quarterback in Atlanta Falcons history?
Matt Ryan is widely considered one of the franchise's greatest quarterbacks. He holds Atlanta's career passing records and won the 2016 NFL MVP award.
Who was the Atlanta Falcons' first draft pick?
The Falcons selected linebacker Tommy Nobis with the first overall pick in the 1966 NFL Draft.
What was the Atlanta Falcons' Dirty Bird era?
The Dirty Bird era refers primarily to the Falcons' memorable 1998 season, when Jamal Anderson's touchdown celebration became a symbol of the team's run to its first Super Bowl.
Who was the quarterback for the 1998 Atlanta Falcons?
Chris Chandler was Atlanta's starting quarterback during the 1998 season and helped lead the team to Super Bowl XXXIII.
Who was the quarterback for the 2016 Atlanta Falcons?
Matt Ryan led Atlanta during the 2016 season, earning NFL MVP honors and guiding the Falcons to Super Bowl LI.
Where do the Atlanta Falcons play home games?
The Atlanta Falcons play their home games at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia.
Is Atlanta Falcons autographed memorabilia collectible?
Yes. Authenticated Falcons jerseys, helmets, footballs, and photographs featuring legendary players and modern stars are popular among NFL memorabilia collectors.
The Lasting Legacy of the Atlanta Falcons
From their first season in 1966 to unforgettable playoff victories and two Super Bowl appearances, the Atlanta Falcons have created a distinctive legacy in professional football.
The franchise has featured Hall of Fame talent, record-setting quarterbacks, explosive receivers, dominant defenders, and some of the NFL's most memorable teams.
For football fans and sports memorabilia collectors, Atlanta Falcons history offers generations of players and moments worth celebrating.
As the franchise continues building its future, the achievements of its legendary players and championship-era teams remain an important part of Atlanta's sporting identity.
