The Atlanta Falcons are no strangers to the Super Bowl, having made it all the way to the big game on two separate occasions. The first appearance was in 1998 when they faced off against John Elway and the Denver Broncos. After a thrilling season of football that saw them come out as NFC Champions, their road ended in a 34-19 loss at Super Bowl XXXIII. But thirteen years later, in 2016, they returned with an even more determined mindset and secured themselves another shot at glory by winning over Aaron Rodgers’ Green Bay Packers and becoming NFC Champions once again. This time around however fate smiled upon them as they managed to defeat Tom Brady’s New England Patriots 28-34 for their very first Vince Lombardi Trophy.
1. Matt Ryan
Quarterback
Career
- NFL Most Valuable Player (2016)
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2016)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (2008)
- First-team All-Pro (2016)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2010, 2012, 2014, 2016)
- NFL passer rating leader (2016)
- NFL completion percentage leader (2012)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2008)
- Bert Bell Award (2016)
- Manning Award (2007)
- Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (2007)
- ACC Player of the Year (2007)
- ACC Offensive Player of the Year (2007)
- First-team All-American (2007)
- First-team All-ACC (2007)
- Boston College Eagles Jersey No. 12 retired
Matt Ryan is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time Super Bowl champion with the Atlanta Falcons. Matt Ryan was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2008 and has spent his entire career with the team, winning two Super Bowls.
In 2017, he became only the fifth quarterback in NFL history to throw for over 5,000 yards in four consecutive seasons. He married actress Laverne Cox in 2018 and they have one child together. Matt Ryan is a two-time NFL MVP and four-time Pro Bowler.
He has led the Falcons to an NFC South title in each of his five seasons as their quarterback, making him one of only three players ever to accomplish that feat.
His stellar play has helped Atlanta make it to the playoffs every year he’s been there, including back-to-back appearances in the Super Bowl (2015 and 2016).
Ryan also holds many passing records for his team, such as most completions in a season (539), most touchdown passes in a career (71), and most yards gained per game by any player with at least 2,000 attempts.
2. Julio Jones
Wide receiver
Career
- 2× First-team All-Pro (2015, 2016)
- 3× Second-team All-Pro (2017–2019)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2012, 2014–2019)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2015, 2018)
- NFL receptions co-leader (2015)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011)
- BCS national champion (2009)
- SEC Freshman of the Year (2008)
- First-team All-SEC (2010)
- Second-team All-SEC (2008)
Julio Jones is one of the most accomplished receivers in NFL history. He has won multiple awards and accolades, including three consecutive Pro Bowl appearances from 2015 to 2017.
Julio Jones was drafted sixth overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2011 and has since had an illustrious career with the team. He enjoyed a stellar rookie season, setting league records for receiving yards and touchdowns while also being named Rookie of the Year.
In 2018, he led all wide receivers with 1,409 yards on 107 receptions as part of an explosive Atlanta offense that went deep into playoff contention.
Julio Jones remains one of the top players in the game today - his combination of size (6'3", 220lbs), speed (he's running a 4.33 40-yard dash) and ability to make spectacular catches makes him a difficult player to defend no matter who he plays against.
As one of only six players ever to have at least 10,000 receiving yards and 500 touchdown receptions in their career, Julio Jones is unquestionably one of football's greatest talents ever. Julio Jones is a well-known and highly decorated NFL player.
He has won multiple awards and accolades throughout his career, including 2 first-team All-Pro selections and 3 second-team All-Pros. Julio Jones was drafted 1st overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2011, making him one of the most talented players to ever enter the league.
Julio Jones had an outstanding rookie season, catching 96 passes for 1,426 yards and 10 touchdowns - all rookie records at the time.
In 2012, Julio Jones became just the 5th player in NFL history to record over 1000 receiving yards in a single season – he finished with 1126 yards on 147 receptions alone.
In 2013, Julio Jones led the Falcons to their first Super Bowl victory since 1999 (they also made it back to The Big Game in 2017).
During that game, he caught 11 passes for 154 yards and 2 touchdowns – an amazing performance that helped seal Atlanta’s place as kings of football once again.
3. Devonta Freeman
Running back
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2014–2019)
- New York Giants (2020)
- Buffalo Bills (2020)*
- New Orleans Saints (2021)*
- Baltimore Ravens (2021)
Freeman attended Miami Central High School and played running back for the Florida State Seminoles. Freeman was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2014 NFL Draft and spent 4 seasons with them before being traded to the New York Giants in 2020.
Freeman has also had stints with the Buffalo Bills (2020) and New Orleans Saints (2021). In 2021, he signed with Baltimore Ravens where he currently plays. Devonta Freeman was a two-time Pro Bowler and Second Team All-American for the Georgia Bulldogs.
He led the NFL in rushing touchdowns in 2015 and 2016, earning him an induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017. After being drafted by Atlanta with the fifth overall pick of the 2013 draft, Freeman quickly established himself as one of the league’s top running backs.
In 2018 he led Atlanta to their first playoff appearance since 2008 and capped off his stellar career by winning Super Bowl LI against New England Patriots.
4. Deion Sanders
Defensive back
Career
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXIX, XXX)
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (1994)
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994, 1996–1998)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1991, 1999)
- 8× Pro Bowl (1991–1994, 1996–1999)
- NFL kickoff return yards leader (1992)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1989)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
- Jim Thorpe Award (1988)
- 2× Unanimous All-American (1987, 1988)
- Florida State Seminoles Jersey No. 2 honored
Deion Sanders was a professional football player for 14 seasons, playing for the Atlanta Falcons, San Francisco 49ers, and Dallas Cowboys. He is best known for his time with the 49ers, where he won five Super Bowls (1995-98, 2001).
After leaving the NFL in 1999, Sanders spent several years as a commentator on ESPN's SportsCenter before returning to coaching in 2013. In 2015 he took over as head coach of the Colorado Buffaloes football team. Deion Sanders was an accomplished NFL player and coach.
He is best known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he won two Super Bowls. After retiring from playing in 2000, Sanders served as a head coach at Prime Prep Academy in California for one season before moving on to Triple A Academy in Texas.
There he led the team to a state championship and was named Coach of the Year. In 2017, Sanders became the offensive coordinator at Trinity Christian School in Texas after spending three years as head coach of Jackson State University (MS).
As of 2019, Sanders holds the distinction of being both a head coach and offensive coordinator in both college football and professional football leagues - the National Football League (NFL) and Canadian Football League (CFL).
5. Michael Vick
Quarterback
Career
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2010)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2002, 2004, 2005, 2010)
- Bert Bell Award (2010)
- Archie Griffin Award (1999)
- First-team All-American (1999)
- Big East Offensive Player of the Year (1999)
- Big East Rookie of the Year (1999)
Vick was one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history, leading his teams to five division titles and two conference championships. Vick's legal issues caused him to miss a large chunk of his career, but he is now free from prison and ready to restart his football career.
Although many people are skeptical about Vick's return to the NFL, he has earned himself a spot on some team's rosters this season.
Michael Vick will always be remembered for his time with Atlanta Falcons, where he led the team to its first playoff appearance in over 20 years Michael Vick was a highly successful quarterback in the NFL, winning four Pro Bowls and being named MVP of the 2006 game.
However, his career came to an abrupt end after he was convicted of receiving illegal payments from dogfighting promoters. After serving two years in prison, Vick is now trying his hand at coaching, having been appointed as the head coach of Atlanta Legends in 2019.
6. Robert Alford
Cornerback
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2013–2018)
- Arizona Cardinals (2019–2021)
Robert Alford was born in Hammond, Louisiana on November 1st 1988. He attended high school at Hammond and played football for the Tigers. In college, he played for Southeastern Louisiana where he was a two-time All American cornerback.
After going undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft, Robert signed with the Atlanta Falcons and made his debut during the 2014 season as a backup corner behind Asante Samuel.
He started 15 games over three seasons before being traded to the Carolina Panthers in 2018 where he again started 15 games before being released at the end of the year.
Robert has also appeared in six playoff games throughout his career including five starts while with Atlanta and one start while with Carolina. Alford is a talented cornerback who has played for the Arizona Cardinals over the past three seasons.
Alford was named to first-team All-Southland in 2012 and finished his collegiate career with 198 tackles, five interceptions, and six pass deflections. Alford entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2016 and started 14 games that season while recording 69 tackles, two interceptions, and one forced fumble.
In 2017, Alford missed four games due to injury but still recorded 54 tackles, three interceptions (one of which he returned for a touchdown), and two forced fumbles during the regular season.
In 2018, Alford once again missed time due to injury but managed 36 tackles along with one interception during 10 games played before being lost for the remainder of the year with a torn Achilles tendon suffered in Week 16 against Jacksonville Jaguars.
7. Ricardo Allen
Safety
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2014–2020)
- Cincinnati Bengals (2021)
Ricardo Allen played college football at Purdue and was signed by the Atlanta Falcons as a fifth-round pick in the 2014 NFL Draft. He has since worked as a special teams assistant for both the Falcons and Cincinnati Bengals.
Allen was born in Daytona Beach, Florida, but moved to Ohio when he was young. After playing high school football at Mainland (Daytona Beach), he attended Purdue where he became one of the most consistent punt returners in school history.
On October 25th, 2018 it was announced that Allen had been hired by the Miami Dolphins as their new Special Teams Coordinator under Head Coach Adam Gase.
In his first season with Miami, they finished third in total punts with 44 and also tied for second in net punting with 43 yards per punt average Ricardo Allen has spent the past two seasons as a special teams assistant for the Miami Dolphins.
In his time with the Dolphins, Allen has helped lead one of the strongest units in all of football. He is known for his ability to get to ball carriers quickly and disrupt plays behind the line of scrimmage.
The Florida State product is entering his fourth NFL season and looks poised to have another stellar campaign alongside some talented teammates on special teams.
8. Deion Jones
Linebacker
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2022)
- Cleveland Browns (2022–present)
In his three seasons with the Falcons, Deion Jones was an instrumental part of Atlanta's defense. In 2020, he signed a five-year contract extension with the Browns and has been one of their most consistent players over that time frame.
He is known for being very versatile on the field, able to play in any linebacker position, and doing well against both run and pass plays. Jones is set to become a free agent at the end of 2021 but is likely to remain with Cleveland due to their strong defensive record over that period of time.
The Atlanta Falcons middle linebacker Deion Jones is one of the most promising young players in the NFL.
He was selected to his first Pro Bowl this season and has been a key part of the team's success over the past few years. Jones began his career with Georgia State before transferring to Alabama for his final year of eligibility.
After being drafted by the Falcons in 2015, he quickly established himself as an elite player on defense and won numerous awards along the way including PFWA All-Rookie Team and Pro Bowl selection in 2017.
With 652 tackles, 11 sacks, 2 fumble recoveries, and 47 pass deflections from 122 games played so far, it's safe to say that Deion Jones is one of if not the best middle linebacker currently playing in football.
9. Taylor Gabriel
Wide receiver
Career
- Cleveland Browns (2014–2015)
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2017)
- Chicago Bears (2018–2019)
Gabriel was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the 2014 NFL Draft but did not sign with them. He then spent time on the Indianapolis Colts practice squad before being released in December of that year.
Gabriel signed with the Atlanta Falcons in January 2015 and played for their practice squad until he was waived in September of that year. Gabriel then spent a few months on the New England Patriots practice squad before signing with the Detroit Lions in October 2015.
He played for their preseason team and made it onto their regular roster ahead of their season opener against the Seattle Seahawks but only appeared as a receiver on special teams In November 2016.
Gabriel caught his first career touchdown pass from Matt Ryan during a game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers In February 2017, Gabriel signed with Buffalo Bills as an unrestricted free agent After appearing sparingly for Buffalo over two seasons, including playing just one game late-season 2018 due to injury.
he was traded to Los Angeles Rams in early 2019 Gabriel was drafted in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns.
Gabriel made his NFL debut in Week 7 of that season against the Baltimore Ravens and caught two passes for 25 yards. He appeared in all 16 games as a rookie, catching 43 passes for 487 yards and three touchdowns.
Gabriel became an important part of Cleveland's offense during his second season, starting 13 games and finishing with 74 receptions for 1,118 yards and eight touchdowns.
In 2016, Gabriel signed with Atlanta Falcons after spending time on injured reserve with a toe injury he suffered during training camp with Chicago Bears the year before.
In 2017, Gabriel started all sixteen games for Chicago (a franchise-high) while earning First Team All-Pro honors from both The Associated Press (AP) and Pro Football Writers Association (PFWA).
10. Mohamed Sanu
Wide receiver
Career
- Cincinnati Bengals (2012–2015)
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2019)
- New England Patriots (2019)
- San Francisco 49ers (2020)
- Detroit Lions (2020)
- San Francisco 49ers (2021)
- Miami Dolphins (2022)*
Sanu is a Pro Bowler and 3-time All-Pro selection with the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2012, but spent most of his time there on injured reserve.
Sanu signed with the Atlanta Falcons in 2016 and has been one of their main receivers ever since, recording over 1,000 yards each season except for 2018 when he had only 781 yards due to injuries sustained throughout the year.
In 2019, Sanu signed with the New England Patriots where he played until midway through 2020 before being released and signing with the 49ers two weeks later. Mohamed Sanu is a former receiver for the Detroit Lions and Miami Dolphins.
He has spent time with both teams in the past few seasons but will be joining the 49ers next year. As a receiver, Sanu is known for his speed and ability to make big plays downfield.
His 27 touchdown receptions are proof of that. Although he isn't particularly tall or fast, Sanu can still haul in passes over defenders thanks to his strong hands and route-running abilities.
In addition to catching passes, Sanu also occasionally runs routes as a wideout out of the backfield or on special teams units - an attribute that could help him find success in the NFL again one day.
Sanu's arrival in 2019 will give quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo another reliable target deep downfield, which should help keep defenses honest and open up opportunities for other players on offense.
11. Jamal Anderson
Running back
Career
- First-team All-Pro (1998)
- Pro Bowl (1998)
Jamal Anderson was a running back for the Utah Utes from 1994-1998. He had an impressive NFL career, rushing for over 12,000 yards and earning four Pro Bowl selections.
After retiring from the NFL in 2001, he went on to have a successful career as a head coach at UNLV (2003-2008). In September 2018, Anderson was arrested after allegedly assaulting his wife.
Jamal Anderson is one of the most decorated running backs in NFL history. He was a two-time first-team All-Pro and led the league in rushing yards twice while scoring 34 touchdowns during his career with the Atlanta Falcons.
Jamal Anderson also became a Pro Bowler in 1998, which meant he had achieved all that was possible as a professional player. After leaving Atlanta, Anderson spent time with four other teams before retiring after the 2001 season at age 35 due to an injury sustained during practice.
Despite hanging up his cleats, Jamal Anderson remains active off the field and continues to work with children through his charity work - something that he takes very seriously.
12. Andy Levitre
Guard
Career
- High school: San Lorenzo Valley, (Felton, California)
- College: Oregon State (2004–2008)
- NFL Draft: 2009 / Round: 2 / Pick: 51
- Buffalo Bills (2009–2012), Tennessee Titans (2013–2014), Atlanta Falcons (2015–2018)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2009), First-team All-American (2008), First-team All-Pac-10 (2008)
- Games played: 143, Games started: 143
- Games played: 143
- Games started: 143
Levitre played college football at Oregon State and was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2009. He has since played for the Atlanta Falcons, New Orleans Saints, Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles and Miami Dolphins.
Levitre is a three-time Pro Bowler who has been named to two All-Pro teams and one First Team selection. He also won a Super Bowl with the Patriots in 2016. Levitre is known for his physical play on the offensive line and is considered one of the best blockers in NFL history.
In January 2019, it was announced that Levitre had retired from professional football after 11 seasons。 Levitre is a veteran of the NFL, having played for Buffalo Bills (2009-2012) and Tennessee Titans (2013-2014). Levitre excels as a pass rusher, recording 36 sacks in his career.
He has been named to multiple All-Pro teams and was even selected to play in the Pro Bowl in 2014. The Falcons drafted Levitre with the hope that he can help shore up their weak offensive line play.
13. Ryan Schraeder
Tackle
Career
- High school: Maize High School, (Maize, Kansas)
- College: Valdosta State
- Undrafted: 2013
- Atlanta Falcons (2013–2018)
- First-team All-Pro (2015)
- Games played: 88, Games started: 73
- Games played: 88
- Games started: 73
Ryan Schraeder was born on May 4, 1988 in Wichita, Kansas. He played football and basketball at Maize High School before transferring to Valdosta State where he earned All-American honors as a tackle.
Schraeder was undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft but signed with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent.
He spent four seasons with the Falcons before signing with the Tennessee Titans in 2017. In his ten-year career, Schraeder has played for Atlanta, Tennessee, and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Ryan Schraeder was drafted in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons. Ryan played college football at Georgia Tech and started all 38 games he appeared in for the Yellow Jackets.
He originally entered into professional football as a center, but injuries forced him to move to left guard after his rookie season with Atlanta.
After three seasons with Atlanta, Ryan signed a five-year contract extension worth $29 million with $14 million guaranteed on March 10th, 2018.
Ryan is an excellent pass blocker and has been able to keep quarterbacks clean throughout his career thus far; this has helped him earn multiple All-Pro selections over time.
14. Brooks Reed
Outside linebacker
Career
- High school: Sabino, (Tucson, Arizona)
- College: Arizona (2007–2010)
- Position: Outside linebacker
- NFL Draft: 2011 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42
- Houston Texans (2011–2014), Atlanta Falcons (2015–2018), Arizona Cardinals (2019), Tennessee Titans (2020)
- First-team All-Pac-10 (2010)
- Total tackles: 288, Sacks: 23.5, Forced fumbles: 4, Fumble recoveries: 2, Interceptions: 1
- Total tackles: 288
- Sacks: 23.5
- Forced fumbles: 4
- Fumble recoveries: 2
- Interceptions: 1
Brooks Reed was drafted in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans. He played for them from 2011 to 2014, before joining Atlanta Falcons in 2015.
Brooks Reed has also appeared for Arizona Cardinals and Cleveland Browns during his career so far. Brooks Reed was a dominant force on the defensive line for both Atlanta Falcons and Arizona Cardinals.
He has accumulated 288 tackles, 23.5 sacks, 4 forced fumbles and 2 fumble recoveries in his 7-year career. Brooks Reed is an excellent pass rusher who can bring pressure from all angles on the quarterback.
His ability to strip the ball away or get penetration into the backfield makes him a dangerous player for any offense to face off against. Brooks Reed is durable; he's missed only 3 games over his entire NFL career despite playing through plenty of injuries along the way.
He'll be crucial to Tennessee Titans' success in 2020 as they look to make another run at Super Bowl glory.
Also Played For: 2011 nfl draft
15. De'Vondre Campbell
Outside linebacker
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2019)
- Arizona Cardinals (2020)
- Green Bay Packers (2021–present)
De'Vondre Campbell was drafted in the fourth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. He has since played for the Atlanta Falcons and Arizona Cardinals.
Campbell is a versatile linebacker who can play inside or outside positions. His athleticism and tackling ability make him an important part of any defense.
Campbell is set to become a free agent at the end of this season, and there are several teams who will be interested in his services.
He would be an excellent addition to any team looking to improve their linebackers corps Campbell was drafted by the Packers in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. He played in all 16 games for Green Bay during his rookie season, recording 36 tackles and 2 sacks.
In 2022, Campbell continued to contribute on defense for the Packers, registering 47 tackles and 3 sacks.
After a breakout year in 2022 with 68 tackles, 10 sacks (third most in the league), and 1 interception (returned for a touchdown), Campbell was named. First-team All-Pro by NFLPA and received votes as an AP first-team All-American alone.
With being selected to play in both PFRA's Eastern Divisional Offensive Player of The Year Award & Defensive Player Of The Year Award ceremonies finishing runner-up behind.
Washington Redskins' Derrius Guice On October 18th, 2023 against Chicago Bears recorded career highs with 12 total tackles including 9 solo stops.
Sacked Jay Cutler twice which resulted in him injuring his thumb and requiring surgery that ruled him out for 6 weeks.
He returned in Week 13 versus Indianapolis Colts De'Vondre will turn 24 years old on December 5th, 2024 marking another pivotal season with Green Bay looking to capture their fourth championship trophy.
16. Austin Hooper
Tight end
Career
- High school: De La Salle, (Concord, California)
- College: Stanford (2013–2015)
- NFL Draft: 2016 / Round: 3 / Pick: 81
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2019), Cleveland Browns (2020–2021), Tennessee Titans (2022–present)
- Roster status: Active
- 2x Pro Bowl (2018, 2019), First-team All-Pac-12 (2015)
- Receptions: 319, Receiving yards: 3,251, Receiving touchdowns: 25
- Receptions: 319
- Receiving yards: 3,251
- Receiving touchdowns: 25
Austin Hooper was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the third round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He has spent his entire career with the Browns, appearing in 41 games and recording 14 receptions for 154 yards and one touchdown.
In 2017, he appeared in all 16 games for Cleveland and recorded seven receptions for 82 yards and a touchdown. Hooper is a versatile tight end who can play both inline and out wide on offense, making him an important part of any team's offensive scheme.
He is strong enough to block on occasion, but more typically serves as a receiver or blocker off the line of scrimmage when needed.
With new head coach Freddie Kitchens now at quarterback, it will be interesting to see if Hooper sees increased opportunities this season with Josh Gordon no longer on the roster.
Also Played For: stanford cardinal football
17. Matt Bryant
Placekicker
Career
- Iowa Barnstormers (2000)*
- Berlin Thunder (2002)*
- New York Giants (2002–2003)
- Frankfurt Galaxy (2002)
- Dallas Cowboys (2004)*
- Indianapolis Colts (2004)
- Miami Dolphins (2004)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2005–2008)
- Florida Tuskers (2009)
- Atlanta Falcons (2009–2019)
Bryant began his NFL career with the Giants in 2002. He was a member of the Berlin Thunder and Frankfurt Galaxy before landing with the Giants. Bryant has been an accurate kicker throughout his career, converting over 90% of his extra points attempts.
In 2003, he signed as a free agent with Atlanta Falcons where he spent 4 seasons kicking for them until 2013 when he retired from professional football at age 47 due to injury Bryant is a former NFL kicker who most notably played for the Atlanta Falcons from 2009-2019.
He has made over 400 career field goals and attempted 464, having led the league in scoring in 2016. Bryant was born on September 2, 1980, in Dayton, Ohio, and attended Miami University where he earned his bachelor's degree in 2002.
Bryant began his professional football career with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent before being signed by the Atlanta Falcons ahead of the 2004 season.
In 2008, Bryant signed with the Buccaneers where he spent six seasons before joining the Dolphins in 2013 where he remained until 2019 when he was released by Miami following their playoff loss to New England Patriots.
After leaving Miami, Bryant joined up with his former team -the Falcons -on a one-year deal and finished out his playing career with them. Matt Bryant retired from professional football after leading all kickers at 85% accuracy during his final year (2018).
18. Warrick Dunn
Running back
Career
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1997)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1997, 2000, 2005)
- Bart Starr Award (2009)
- Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year (2004)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1997)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
- National champion (1993)
- Second-team All-American (1996)
- 3× First-team All-ACC (1994–1996)
- Florida State Seminoles Jersey No. 28 honored
Dunn is a running back who played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Atlanta Falcons, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Dunn had a successful career in the NFL, amassing over 10,000 yards from scrimmage.
Dunn was an All-Pro twice during his time in the NFL and also won a Super Bowl with the Buccaneers in 2002. After leaving football behind to focus on his family life, Dunn returned to play for the Bucs in 2008 at age 38.
In 2019, it was announced that Dunn would be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame along with former teammate Derrick Brooks.
Warrick Dunn is considered one of pro football's most versatile players – he excelled as both a rusher and receiver throughout his career.
Warrick Dunn was one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history. He won three Pro Bowls and was an All-Rookie First-Team selection in 1997.
Dunn also had success in college, where he led Florida State to a national championship in 1993 and was voted Second-Team All-American by the Associated Press that year.
After retiring from football, Dunn has continued his involvement with the sport as a commentator for ESPN and Fox Sports 1.
19. Grady Jarrett
Defensive tackle
Career
- Second-team All-Pro (2019)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2019, 2020)
- First-team All-ACC (2014)
Jarrett played defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons from 2015 to present. He has appeared in 93 NFL games, with 63 starts. Jarrett recorded 54 tackles and nine sacks during his time with the Falcons.
Jarrett was drafted by the Falcons in the fifth round of the 2015 NFL Draft after playing college football at Clemson. Grady Jarrett is a versatile defensive lineman who has played both end and tackle positions in the NFL.
He was named to the second-team All-Pro team in 2019 and 2020, after recording 413 total tackles, 32.5 sacks, 5 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries and 4 pass deflections during his seven seasons in the league.
Jarrett was also an integral part of Clemson's National Championship teams in 2014 and 2018, winning ACC Player of the Year honors each time.
20. Steve Bartkowski
Career
- 2× Pro Bowl (1980, 1981)
- NFL passing touchdowns leader (1980)
- NFL passer rating leader (1983)
- NFL completion percentage leader (1984)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1975)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
- Consensus All-American (1974)
Bartkowski was a quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons from 1975 to 1985. He led the Falcons to their first ever playoff appearance in 1978 and then back-to-back NFC Championship appearances in 1979 and 1980.
Bartkowski also played for the Los Angeles Rams from 1986 to 1987, before retiring after his third season with Chicago Bears. Steve Bartkowski was a four-time Pro Bowler, three-time NFL passer rating leader and two-time PFWA All-Rookie Team selection.
He led the league in passing touchdowns twice and also finished third in yards passed. Steve Bartkowski played his entire career with the Atlanta Falcons, retiring after the 1987 season.
21. Adrian Clayborn
Defensive end
Career
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2011–2014)
- Atlanta Falcons (2015–2017)
- New England Patriots (2018)
- Atlanta Falcons (2019)
- Cleveland Browns (2020)
Clayborn was drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2011 NFL Draft. He played for them from 2011 to 2014, before joining Atlanta Falcons in 2015.
Clayborn has been a key player for the Falcons over his career and has won two Super Bowls (2015 and 2017).
In 2018, he signed with the New England Patriots. Adrian Clayborn is a Pro Bowl defensive end who was drafted by the Falcons in 2010.
He has been a two-time First-team All-Big Ten selection and Super Bowl champion with the Atlanta Falcons. Adrian Clayborn is known for his athleticism, pass-rushing ability, and strong tackling skills.
22. Devin Hester
Wide receiver
Career
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2006, 2007, 2010)
- Second-team All-Pro (2011)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2006, 2007, 2010, 2014)
- 2× NFL kickoff return yards leader (2013, 2014)
- 3× NFL Alumni Special Teams Player of the Year (2006, 2007, 2010)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2006)
- 100 Greatest Bears of All-Time
Devin Hester was a three-time first-team all-pro and two-time pro bowl player with the Chicago Bears. In 2013, he became the NFL's leader in kickoff return yards and helped lead the Bears to an NFC North title.
He signed with Atlanta Falcons in 2014 but only played one season before signing with Baltimore Ravens in 2016.
After playing for Seattle Seahawks for one year, Devin retired from professional football at age 36 in September of 2017 Devin Hester is a 3-time NFL Alumni Special Teams Player of the Year and 2010s All-Decade Team member.
Devin Hester was one of the most electrifying return men in NFL history, setting numerous league records along the way.
After leaving the Bears in 2013, Hester signed with Atlanta Falcons where he continued to be an effective return man for them before retiring after the 2017 season.
23. Tony Gonzalez
Tight end
Career
- 6× First-team All-Pro (1999–2001, 2003, 2008, 2012)
- 4× Second-team All-Pro (2002, 2004, 2006, 2007)
- 14× Pro Bowl (1999–2008, 2010–2013)
- NFL receptions leader (2004)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1997)
- Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame
- Consensus All-American (1996)
- First-team All-Pac-10 (1996)
Tony Gonzalez is a retired NFL tight end who played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2013 after playing 13 seasons in the league.
Gonzalez had an impressive career as a pass-catcher with over 12,000 yards receiving and 101 touchdowns. In 2007, he became only the third player in history to score 10 or more touchdowns in six separate seasons.
After retiring from football at the end of the 2013 season, Gonzalez has since started working as an analyst on Fox Sports NFL coverage Tony Gonzalez is one of the most decorated players in NFL history, with 14 Pro Bowl appearances and 4 Second-team All-Pro nods.
He was a First-team All-Pac10 selection as a tight end and also led the league in receptions that season. In his 15 seasons in the NFL, Tony Gonzalez has amassed over 1,500 yards receiving and 111 touchdowns on offense.
His induction into the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame is well deserved, as he ranks second all-time for Tight Ends in career receptions (behind only Jerry Rice).
Tony Gonzalez will always be remembered for his amazing skills as an outlet receiver—a position that has become increasingly rare in today’s NFL landscape.
24. Dwight Freeney
Defensive end
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XLI)
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2004, 2005, 2009)
- Second-team All-Pro (2003)
- 7× Pro Bowl (2003–2005, 2008–2011)
- NFL sacks leader (2004)
- NFL forced fumbles co-leader (2002)
- NFL 2000s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2002)
- Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
- Unanimous All-American (2001)
- 2× First-team All-Big East (2000, 2001)
Dwight Freeney is a well-known defensive end who has played his entire career with the Indianapolis Colts. He started out playing college football at Syracuse but was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2002.
His biggest seasons came during the 2010 and 2011 campaigns when he recorded 11 sacks and helped lead the Colts to two AFC championships. In 2013 and 2014, Dwight Freeney joined San Diego Chargers where he continued to produce on defense, helping them make it to the playoffs both years.
At age 42, Dwight Freeney still possesses plenty of athleticism which allows him to play at an elite level despite being in his tenth season in the NFL Dwight Freeney is a 3-time first-team All-Pro and 2 time Pro Bowler.
He was named the NFL sacks leader in 2004 and led the league with 13 forced fumbles that season.
In 2011, he helped lead the Arizona Cardinals to their first Super Bowl victory by recording two sacks in their 43–13 win over the New Orleans Saints. After 11 seasons in the NFL, Dwight Freeney announced his retirement at age 36 on February 10th of this year.
25. Tevin Coleman
Running back
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2015–2018)
- San Francisco 49ers (2019–2020)
- New York Jets (2021)
- San Francisco 49ers (2022–present)
Tevin Coleman is a 29-year-old running back who played for the Atlanta Falcons and San Francisco 49ers in his NFL career. He attended Oak Forest High School in Illinois before playing college football at Indiana from 2012 to 2014.
In 2015, he was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons with the 73rd overall pick and spent three seasons with them before joining the San Francisco 49ers in 2019. Coleman has averaged 4 yards per carry over his career and scored 13 touchdowns – including six rushing scores – in 59 regular season games played.
He has also contributed 10 receptions for 115 yards during that span of time, making him a versatile player on offense as well as special teams coverage units Coleman was a two-time All-American and first-team all-Big Ten players at Indiana.
He rushed for 3,319 yards and 25 touchdowns in his four seasons with the Jets before being traded to San Francisco this offseason.
Coleman should be an important part of the 49er's offense as they look to return to prominence in the NFL after a down few years.
26. Matt Bosher
Punter
Career
- High school: Jupiter (Jupiter, Florida)
- College: Miami (FL)
- Position: Punter
- NFL Draft: 2011 / Round: 6 / Pick: 192
- Atlanta Falcons (2011–2019)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2011), 2× First-team All-ACC (2009, 2010), Second-team All-ACC (2008)
- Punts: 489, Punting yards: 22,346, Punting average: 45.7, Inside 20: 190
- Punts: 489
- Punting yards: 22,346
- Punting average: 45.7
- Inside 20: 190
Bosher is a punter for the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted in the sixth round of the 2011 NFL Draft by the Falcons. Bosher has played for the Falcons since 2011 and has been with them through four seasons.
In 2016, he had an outstanding season punting for the team, averaging 41 yards per punt on 45 punts. Bosher holds several Falcon records including most consecutive games with a punt inside 20 yards (9), longest punt from scrimmage (64 yards) and second-longest field goal attempt from 50 or more yards (47).
Bosher was one of the most productive punters in college football during his time at Wake Forest. Bosher is a big guy and he can utilize his size to pin opponents inside the 20-yard line.
He has worked on improving his accuracy over the years, which should come in handy as a professional punter. Bosher will need to work on getting stronger if he wants to keep up with NFL defenders down field.
He had an up-and-down rookie campaign but there's no doubt that Matt Boshers has potential as an NFL punter
27. Ra'Shede Hageman
Defensive end
Career
- High school: Minneapolis (MN) Washburn
- College: Minnesota (2009–2013)
- NFL Draft: 2014 / Round: 2 / Pick: 37
- Atlanta Falcons (2014–2016, 2019), Daytona Beach APL team (2023–present)
- Third-team All-American (2013), First-team All-Big Ten (2013)
- Total tackles: 62, Sacks: 4.0, Forced fumbles: 0, Fumble recoveries: 0, Pass deflections: 1
- Total tackles: 62
- Sacks: 4.0
- Forced fumbles: 0
- Fumble recoveries: 0
- Pass deflections: 1
Hageman is a defensive tackle who was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 2014. Hageman played college football at Minnesota and recorded 34 tackles, one sack, and two interceptions over three seasons with the Gophers.
Hageman signed with the Falcons as an undrafted free agent in 2014 and made his NFL debut that season. He appeared in all 16 games for Atlanta that year, recording 12 tackles and 1½ sacks before being traded to the Seattle Seahawks midway through 2015 season.
In 2016, Hageman joined the Arizona Cardinals but only played in six games due to injury before signing with the Cleveland Browns late in 2017.
Hageman spent 2018 with both teams before joining the Minnesota Vikings this past offseason. Hageman was a highly touted recruit coming out of high school and entered the NFL with lofty expectations.
He has not lived up to them so far, but he is still an effective player in the league. Hageman primarily plays as a defensive tackle, but can also play on the offensive line if need be.
Hageman has made some noise off the field with arrests for marijuana possession and assault charges that were later dropped, but he's focused on football now and trying to make it in the NFL.
28. Duron Harmon
Safety
Career
- New England Patriots (2013–2019)
- Detroit Lions (2020)
- Atlanta Falcons (2021)
- Las Vegas Raiders (2022–present)
Duron Harmon was drafted by the New England Patriots in the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft. Duron Harmon signed a three-year contract with the Patriots and made his debut in Week 6 of the 2013 season.
Harmon played 79 games for the Patriots over four seasons, making 282 tackles, two sacks, one interception, and five pass deflections.
In 2020, Harmon was traded to Detroit Lions where he played another 11 games before retiring at age 31 due to an injury sustained during preseason training camp.
Duron Harmon is a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the fourth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, but he never played for them because they traded him to Seattle Seahawks in September 2014.
Duron Harmon signed with the New Orleans Saints as a free agent in March 2018 and helped them win their first-ever Super Bowl championship that season.
In February 2019, Duron Harmon signed with the Oakland Raiders and helped them reach their first-ever playoff appearance since 2002.
29. Jalen Collins
Cornerback
Career
- High school: Olive Branch, (Olive Branch, Mississippi)
- College: LSU
- Position: Defensive back
- NFL Draft: 2015 / Round: 2 / Pick: 42
- Atlanta Falcons (2015–2017), Indianapolis Colts (2018–2019), Los Angeles Wildcats (2020)*, Tampa Bay Vipers (2020), Toronto Argonauts (2021–2022), Edmonton Elks (2022)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- Total tackles: 48, Forced fumbles: 1, Fumble recoveries: 1, Pass deflections: 10, Interceptions: 2
- Total tackles: 48
- Forced fumbles: 1
- Fumble recoveries: 1
- Pass deflections: 10
- Interceptions: 2
Jalen Collins was a highly touted cornerback coming out of high school, but he struggled in his first two seasons at LSU. He showed significant improvement over the next three years and was named an All-American in 2015.
The Falcons drafted him with their second round pick in the 2015 NFL Draft and he made his debut during the 2016 season. Collins played well for Atlanta until he sustained a knee injury that ended his season prematurely.
Collins returned to action during the 2017 season and continued to make plays as one of Atlanta's top defenders, helping them reach Super Bowl LI where they lost to New England Patriots by 34 points.
Collins is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this year and there has been speculation that he will be offered a contract extension by Atlanta before then.
Getty Images Despite being considered one of the best cornerbacks in the league, injuries have taken their toll on Collins' career; most notably a torn ACL which sidelined him for much of 2018 Getty Images.
30. Julian Edelman
Career
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII)
- Super Bowl MVP (LIII)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- Second-team All-MAC (2006)
Julian Edelman is a wide receiver for the New England Patriots. He was drafted by the Patriots in 2009 and has spent his entire career with them. Julian Edelman is well-known for his speed and elusiveness on the field, as well as his ability to catch passes deep downfield.
In 2015, he set an NFL record with 23 receptions in a single game. Julian Edelman is married to actress Holli Davis and they have two children together - daughter Vivian Rose (born September 12, 2017) and son Bowie Jean (born May 2, 2020).
Julian Edelman also has a brother named Marcus who played football at Stanford University before playing professionally in Europe Julian Edelman is a talented receiver for the New England Patriots.
He has been with the Patriots since 2009 and has led them to three Super Bowl victories. In 2017, he was named MVP of the Super Bowl victory over the Atlanta Falcons. Julian Edelman is also an excellent returner, having scored four touchdowns on returns in his career thus far.
31. Andre Rison
Wide receiver
Career
- Indianapolis Colts (1989)
- Atlanta Falcons (1990–1994)
- Cleveland Browns (1995)
- Jacksonville Jaguars (1996)
- Green Bay Packers (1996)
- Kansas City Chiefs (1997–1999)
- Oakland Raiders (2000)
- Toronto Argonauts (2004–2005)
Andre Rison was a wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, and Cleveland Browns in his NFL career. He is best known for his time with the Falcons, where he recorded over 1,000 receiving yards seven times in his eleven seasons there.
Andre Rison also played for the Jacksonville Jaguars and Green Bay Packers during parts of two separate seasons before retiring in 2001. Andre Rison was a versatile wide receiver who played for the Kansas City Chiefs, Oakland Raiders, and Toronto Argonauts in his career.
He enjoyed success in the NFL, earning three first-team All-Pro selections and five Pro Bowl appearances. Andre Rison also led the league in receiving touchdowns twice during his career, including once with the Oakland Raiders.
Andre Rison retired from professional football following the 2004 season after playing for both the Toronto Argonauts and Arizona Cardinals organizations consecutively.
32. Ray Buchanan
Career
- Indianapolis Colts (1993–1996)
- Atlanta Falcons (1997–2003)
- Oakland Raiders (2004)
Ray Buchanan was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 1993 NFL Draft. He played for the Colts from 1993 to 1996 and then moved on to play for the Atlanta Falcons from 1997 to 2003.
Ray Buchanan is best known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he made a name for himself as one of the league's top cornerbacks. In 2001, he was named to both the Pro Bowl and All-Pro teams after recording career highs in interceptions (7) and passes defended (27).
Ray Buchanan retired from professional football following a successful 16-year career that saw him amass 330 tackles, nine sacks, two fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles, two touchdown returns, and five special teams touchdowns.
Since retiring from football full-time in 2004, Ray has worked as an analyst on Fox Sports 1's coverage of college football games.
He also serves as an ambassador for multiple charities affiliated with children's cancer research. Ray lives in Chicago with his wife Lori and their four children: Megan, Brooke, Collin, and Chase. Ray Buchanan was a linebacker for the Oakland Raiders from 1994-1998.
He had 819 tackles and 47 interceptions in his career. Ray Buchanan is a two-time All-Pro and Pro Bowler who played for the Louisville Cardinals prior to joining the NFL.
After retiring as a player, Ray became an analyst with CBS Sports and Fox Sports Southwest before being hired by ESPN in 2016 as an NFL Insider.
33. Chris Chandler
Quarterback
Career
- Indianapolis Colts (1988–1989)
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1990–1991)
- Phoenix Cardinals (1991–1993)
- Los Angeles Rams (1994)
- Houston Oilers (1995–1996)
- Atlanta Falcons (1997–2001)
- Chicago Bears (2002–2003)
- St. Louis Rams (2004)
Chandler was a starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts from 1988 to 1989. He then played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Phoenix Cardinals before joining the Rams in 1994.
Chandler retired after playing two seasons with Los Angeles, finishing his NFL career with an overall record of 54-53-1. Chris Chandler had a distinguished NFL career that spanned 15 seasons.
He was primarily a quarterback, but also played wide receiver and running back in his career. He is best known for his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he led them to two Super Bowl appearances (1998, 2001).
After leaving the Falcons in 2003, Chandler spent three years with the Chicago Bears before retiring from football at the end of the 2004 season.
34. Gerald Riggs
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XXVI)
- Second-team All-Pro (1985)
- 3× Pro Bowl (1985–1987)
- Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor
Gerald Riggs was a running back in the NFL for 10 seasons. He played for the Atlanta Falcons and was part of their championship teams in 1982 and 1988. Gerald Riggs is best known for his time with the Falcons, where he led the team in rushing yards five times during his career.
His 5th place ranking on the all-time list is a testament to just how successful he was in this position. Outside of football, Gerald Riggs has worked as a coach since retiring from playing professional football.
He most recently spent two seasons as an assistant head coach at Arizona State University before leaving to take over as head coach at North Little Rock High School near his hometown of Tullos, Louisiana in 2017 Gerald Riggs was a standout running back for the Washington Redskins from 1989 to 1991.
He led the team in rushing yards and touchdowns during that time and helped them win Super Bowl XXVI. After his playing career ended, Riggs became an NFL assistant coach with the Falcons.
In 2006 he was named head coach of the Jacksonville Jaguars but resigned after two seasons due to health concerns. Gerald Riggs is a four-time Pro Bowler and one-time All-Pro player who ranks third on Washington's all-time rushing list with 8,188 yards.
35. Matt Schaub
Quarterback
Career
- Atlanta Falcons (2004–2006)
- Houston Texans (2007–2013)
- Oakland Raiders (2014)
- Baltimore Ravens (2015)
- Atlanta Falcons (2016–2020)
Matt Schaub is a former quarterback for the Houston Texans. He played for them from 2007 to 2013 and was released in the offseason of 2014.
Matt Schaub started his career with the Atlanta Falcons, but he was traded in 2006 to the Houston Texans.
In 2009, he led the Texans to their first playoff appearance in franchise history. After playing two more seasons with Houston, Matt Schaub was released by the team in April 2014 and signed with Oakland Raiders shortly after that.
However, he only lasted one season there before being cut again late in 2015 re-joining Houston once more on November 3rd of that year.
Where he retired following an injury-riddled season 4th Quarter against Indianapolis Colts Schaub has been a starting quarterback in the NFL for eight seasons, and during that time he's compiled statistics that would make any player proud.
Schaub is one of only two quarterbacks to throw for over 25,000 yards and finish with an above-average passer rating each season. Matt Schaub is also a proven winner.
He led Baltimore to their first Super Bowl title in over 20 years in 2016, and then took Atlanta to the playoffs this past season as well.
If you're looking for someone who can take your team deep into the postseason, look no further than Matt Schaub – his experience will help your squad get there.
36. Patrick DiMarco
Fullback
Career
- San Diego Chargers (2011)*
- Kansas City Chiefs (2012)
- Atlanta Falcons (2013–2016)
- Buffalo Bills (2017–2019)
Patrick DiMarco is an assistant director of football relations for the South Carolina Gamecocks. He attended and played college football in South Carolina from 2007-2010.
After playing in the NFL with the San Diego Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs, he returned to Columbia as an analyst & assistant director of football relations in 2016.
In this role, Patrick assists head coach Steve Spurrier with all aspects of game-day operations including player personnel, coaching staff assignments & game preparations on both offense (quarterbacks) and defense (linebackers).
A Florida native, Patrick enjoys spending time outdoors fishing or golfing with friends & family when he's not working. Patrick DiMarco is an assistant coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
DiMarco played college football at South Carolina, where he was a two-time All-SEC selection and won the Jim Brown Award as SEC Offensive Player of the Year in 2016.
Patrick DiMarco has spent time with both the Atlanta Falcons and Buffalo Bills during his career so far, but will be joining up with the South Carolina Gamecocks next season as their running backs coach under Will Muschamp.
37. Eric Weems
Wide receiver
Career
- High school: Seabreeze, (Daytona Beach, Florida)
- College: Bethune–Cookman
- Undrafted: 2007
- Atlanta Falcons (2007–2011), Chicago Bears (2012–2013), Atlanta Falcons (2014–2016), Tennessee Titans (2017)
- First-team All-Pro (2010), Pro Bowl (2010)
- Receptions: 39, Receiving yards: 358, Rushing yards: 57, Return yards: 5,354, Total touchdowns: 6
- Receptions: 39
- Receiving yards: 358
- Rushing yards: 57
- Return yards: 5,354
- Total touchdowns: 6
Eric Weems is a five-foot-nine inch, 195 pound wide receiver who was undrafted in 2007. He signed with the Atlanta Falcons after being released by the San Diego Chargers and played there for three seasons before signing with the New Orleans Saints in 2013.
In 2016, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles on a one-year contract and had an outstanding season recording 69 receptions for 1,089 yards and four touchdowns.
Eric Weems has also been a return specialist throughout his career, having compiled 477 yards on 26 returns (21 punt returns, 15 kickoff returns) in 57 games played over six seasons.
Eric Weems was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He had a breakout season with 98 receptions for 1,409 yards and 9 touchdowns in 2016.
The Titans signed him to a three-year deal worth $16 million this offseason. Eric Weems is coming off his third consecutive Pro Bowl selection and has emerged as one of the top receivers in the league over that time period.
38. Steven Jackson
Running back
Career
- High school: Eldorado (Las Vegas, Nevada)
- College: Oregon State
- NFL Draft: 2004 / Round: 1 / Pick: 24
- St. Louis Rams (2004–2012), Atlanta Falcons (2013–2014), New England Patriots (2015)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (2006, 2009), 3× Pro Bowl (2006, 2009, 2010)
- Rushing attempts: 2,764, Rushing yards: 11,438, Rushing touchdowns: 69, Receptions: 461, Receiving yards: 3,683, Receiving touchdowns: 9
- Rushing attempts: 2,764
- Rushing yards: 11,438
- Rushing touchdowns: 69
- Receptions: 461
- Receiving yards: 3,683
- Receiving touchdowns: 9
Jackson is a running back who played for the St. Louis Rams from 2004 to 2012 and then joined the Atlanta Falcons in 2013.
Jackson was drafted by the Rams in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft and quickly became one of their most important players, amassing over 12,000 rushing yards and 68 touchdowns during his career with them.
After leaving St. Louis, Jackson spent time with the Atlanta Falcons before returning to his home state of Nevada for a short stint with the Las Vegas 51s in 2014.
In 2017, Jackson announced his retirement from professional football after 11 seasons, citing chronic pain as one of several reasons why he felt it was time to end his playing career.
Alongside Emmitt Smith and Walter Payton II as one of only three players ever inducted into both the College Football Hall Of Fame (2011) and Pro Football Hall Of Fame (2013), Jackson leaves an impressive legacy behind him on both sides of American football's biggest stage.
39. Morten Andersen
Placekicker
Career
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1985–1987, 1992, 1995)
- Second-team All-Pro (1988)
- 7× Pro Bowl (1985–1988, 1990, 1992, 1995)
- 2× Golden Toe Award (1986, 1995)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame 2009
- New Orleans Saints Ring of Honor 2015
- Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame 2011
- Michigan State Athletics Hall of Fame 2011
- Greater New Orleans Sports Hall of Fame 2013
- Atlanta Sports Hall of Fame 2020
- Indiana Sports Hall of Fame 2020
- First-team All-American (1981)
- First-team All-Big Ten (1981)
- Second-team All-Big Ten (1980)
Andersen was a prolific kicker in the NFL, making over 500 career field goals and totaling 2,544 points. He played for four different teams during his 18-year career: the New Orleans Saints (1982–1994), Atlanta Falcons (1995–2000), New York Giants (2001), and Kansas City Chiefs (2002–2003).
Andersen is best known for his performance with the Saints, where he became one of the most successful kickers in NFL history. Between 1982 and 1994, he made 89 field goals – an NFL record at the time – en route to five Pro Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl victories.
After leaving New Orleans following the 1993 season, Andersen signed with the Atlanta Falcons but struggled initially before becoming one of their all-time greats later in his tenure there.
In 1995 he led both leagues with 54 touchbacks on kicks while also scoring 116 points as part of an NFC Championship victory that year. Following another winning campaign with Kansas City in 2003, Andersen retired from professional football after playing out his contract with them that year.
Andersen is a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time First-team All-Pro. He holds the NFL record for most field goals in a season with 144, which he set in 1998. Andersen was inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame in 2009 and the Falcons Ring of Honor in 2015.
He currently resides near his home state of Minnesota where he owns an advertising agency.
40. Eric Dickerson
Running back
Career
- NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1986)
- NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year (1983)
- 5× First-team All-Pro (1983, 1984, 1986–1988)
- 6× Pro Bowl (1983, 1984, 1986–1989)
- 4× NFL rushing yards leader (1983, 1984, 1986, 1988)
- NFL rushing touchdowns co-leader (1984)
- NFL 1980s All-Decade Team
- NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1983)
- St. Louis Football Ring of Fame
- Indianapolis Colts Ring of Honor
- Los Angeles Rams No. 29 retired
- 3× UPI NFC Offensive Player of the Year (1983, 1984, 1986)
- Consensus All-American (1982)
- Second-team All-American (1981)
- 2× First-team All-SWC (1981, 1982)
- 2× SWC Offensive Player of the Year (1981, 1982)
- SMU Mustangs Jersey No. 19 honored
Eric Dickerson was a running back for the Rams, Colts, and Raiders in his career. He is one of only two players to total over 2,000 yards from scrimmage in three different seasons (1983-1985).
In addition to being an incredibly talented runner, Dickerson also had success as a receiver with the Rams and Raiders. His best season came in 1987 when he totaled 1,808 yards from scrimmage and 13 touchdowns for the Falcons.
After playing his final season with Atlanta in 1993, Eric retired from football at the age of 34 due to injuries sustained during his time on the field. Eric Dickerson was an American running back and one of the most dominant players in NFL history.
He led the league in rushing yards seven times and scored 32 touchdowns during his career. Dickerson was also a three-time UPI NFC Offensive Player of the Year, two-time Second-team All-American, and consensus All-American in 1982.
After retiring from football, Dickerson worked as a sportscaster for ESPN and TNT before becoming a motivational speaker.
41. Martellus Bennett
Career
- High school: Alief Taylor (Houston, Texas)
- College: Texas A&M
- NFL Draft: 2008 / Round: 2 / Pick: 61
- Dallas Cowboys (2008–2011), New York Giants (2012), Chicago Bears (2013–2015), New England Patriots (2016), Green Bay Packers (2017), New England Patriots (2017)
- Super Bowl champion (LI), Pro Bowl (2014), Second-team All-Big 12 (2006)
- Receptions: 433, Receiving yards: 4,573, Receiving touchdowns: 30
- Receptions: 433
- Receiving yards: 4,573
- Receiving touchdowns: 30
Martellus Bennett was drafted in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Dallas Cowboys. He spent three seasons with Dallas before being traded to the New York Giants in 2012.
Bennett has been a key part of two Super Bowl-winning teams, playing in both victories for the Giants. In 2016, he signed with the Patriots and helped them win their fourth championship title that season.
Bennett is known as an extremely productive tight end, having caught over 1,000 passes during his career. He is also an excellent blocker on offence and defence, making him a valuable asset for any team he plays for.
Martellus Bennett will turn 36 years old at the end of this season and looks set to finish his career with one last successful campaign under his belt Bennett is a former University of Texas standout who was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the second round of the 2013 NFL Draft.
Bennett has been with three different teams - the Bears, New England Patriots and Green Bay Packers - since he entered the league and has won two Super Bowls with each team. He is also a Pro Bowler and Second-team All-Big 12 player from his time at Texas.
Bennett's best season came in 2014 when he caught 85 passes for 1,176 yards and 11 touchdowns leading to him being named to both the AP and PFRA All-Pro Teams as well as winning Super Bowl LI with New England over Atlanta Falcons.
Also Played For: madden nfl 18
42. Asante Samuel
Cornerback
Career
- 2× Super Bowl champion (XXXVIII, XXXIX)
- First-team All-Pro (2007)
- Second-team All-Pro (2009)
- 4× Pro Bowl (2007–2010)
- 2× NFL interceptions leader (2006, 2009)
- New England Patriots All-2000s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- First-team All-MAC (2002)
- First-team All-Independent (2001)
Asante Samuel was born in Accra, Ghana on January 6th, 1981. He attended Boyd H. Anderson High School in Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, and played for the UCF Knights football team before being drafted by the New England Patriots in 2003.
Samuel spent four seasons with the Patriots before signing with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2008. In his five seasons with Philadelphia, he made three Pro Bowl appearances and two Super Bowl appearances (both of which were losses).
After spending one season with Atlanta Falcons, Samuel signed a one-year contract to play for the San Francisco 49ers in 2013 but retired after just six games due to an Achilles tendon injury sustained during training camp.
Asante Samuel was a two-time Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots and an All-Pro selection in both 2007 and 2009. In 2006, he led the NFL with three interceptions while also being named to the Pro Bowl squad.
After spending time in Philadelphia (2010–12) and Atlanta (2013), Samuel signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2014.
43. Ben Garland
Guard
Career
- High school: Central, (Grand Junction, Colorado)
- College: Air Force
- Undrafted: 2010
- Denver Broncos (2010–2014), Atlanta Falcons (2015–2018), San Francisco 49ers (2019–2020)
- Salute to Service Award (2018)
- Games played: 68, Games started: 15
- Games played: 68
- Games started: 15
Ben Garland was originally drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2010, but he never played a snap for them. He was signed to the practice squad and then released before being picked up by the Jacksonville Jaguars later that year.
In 2013, Garland was signed to the Indianapolis Colts' practice squad and spent time with both teams until he was cut at the end of training camp in 2014.
After going unclaimed on waivers, Garland joined the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2015 and started 12 games at center over two seasons before being waived again this year.
Ben entered into free agency this offseason and is currently a member of the Denver Broncos after signing a one-year contract earlier this month. Ben Garland was drafted by the Broncos in the fourth round of the 2010 NFL Draft.
He started his professional career with Denver, appearing in 68 games and recording 15 starts over four seasons. In 2015, he was traded to Atlanta where he appeared in 14 games and started five before being released during final cuts prior to the 2016 season.
The following year, Garland signed with San Francisco and made eight appearances on special teams before being waived at the end of preseason action. He has since been claimed off waivers by the 49ers and is currently their starting left tackle moving forward into 2020.
44. Jeff George
Quarterback
Career
- High school: Warren Central, (Indianapolis, Indiana)
- College: Illinois
- NFL Draft: 1990 / Round: 1 / Pick: 1
- Indianapolis Colts (1990–1993), Atlanta Falcons (1994–1996), Oakland Raiders (1997–1998), Minnesota Vikings (1999), Washington Redskins (2000–2001), Seattle Seahawks (2002), Chicago Bears (2004), Oakland Raiders (2006)*
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- NFL passing yards leader (1997), PFWA All-Rookie Team (1990), Sammy Baugh Trophy (1989)
- TD–INT: 154–113, Passing yards: 27,602, Passer rating: 80.4
- TD–INT: 154–113
- Passing yards: 27,602
- Passer rating: 80.4
Jeff George is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders and Minnesota Vikings. Jeff George was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the first round of the 1990 NFL Draft.
Jeff George spent three seasons with the Indianapolis Colts before moving on to play for the Atlanta Falcons, Oakland Raiders and finally, the Minnesota Vikings over a six-year period.
Jeff George retired from professional football after playing for two years with the Minnesota Vikings in 1998/1999 season.
In 2003, JeffGeorge became head coach of Indiana State University's football team where he remained until 2006.
When he was fired after posting an 8–5 record in his second year at ISU Football Head Coaching position A former first round pick of the Washington Redskins in the 1990 NFL Draft, George spent his entire career with the team.
He led the league in passing yards twice and was a four-time Pro Bowler throughout his tenure with Washington. George also made an impact on both sides of the ball, being voted to three All-Pro teams as a quarterback and two more as a rusher for Washington.
In 2002, he signed with Seattle and helped them reach Super Bowl XL where they were narrowly defeated by Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
After brief stints back at Washington (2003) and Chicago (2004), George retired after six seasons in Oakland where he finished with 38 touchdowns against 24 interceptions over 58 games played.
Also Played For: oakland raiders
45. Tim Dwight
Career
- High school: Iowa City (Iowa City, Iowa)[1]
- College: Iowa
- NFL Draft: 1998 / Round: 4 / Pick: 114
- Atlanta Falcons (1998–2000), San Diego Chargers (2001–2004), New England Patriots (2005), New York Jets (2006), Oakland Raiders (2007)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1998), 2× First-team All-American (1996, 1997)
- Receptions: 194, Receiving yards: 2,964, Rushing attempts: 53, Rushing yards: 380, Return yards: 6,526, Total touchdowns: 27
- Receptions: 194
- Receiving yards: 2,964
- Rushing attempts: 53
- Rushing yards: 380
- Return yards: 6,526
- Total touchdowns: 27
Dwight was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1998 but only played for them for two seasons before moving on to the San Diego Chargers. He became a starter with the Chargers and had some successful years there before being released in 2004.
Dwight then signed with the Washington Redskins, where he spent one season before retiring. After retirement, Dwight has worked as an analyst for NFL Network and ESPN and also co-hosts a show called " Fantasy Football Live" on SiriusXM Radio.
Tim Dwight is a former NFL cornerback who played for the New England Patriots (2005) and Oakland Raiders (2007).
Dwight was drafted in the sixth round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots. He started his career with nine seasons with the Patriots, before signing with the Oakland Raiders in 2007.
In 2008, Dwight signed with Dallas Cowboys but did not play any games for them that season as he was suspended for violating team rules early in training camp; he would later return to Dallas during the 2009 preseason and sign a one-year deal to start at cornerback again on defense alongside Terence Newman.
After two seasons back in Oakland, Dwight retired from professional football after playing 14 years professionally including 10 consecutive seasons in the National Football League.
During his time as a player, Tim Dwight recorded 194 receptions for 2,964 yards and 27 touchdowns across 229 games played.
Also Played For: the university of iowa, iowa hawkeyes football
46. Lawyer Milloy
Career
- Super Bowl champion (XXXVI)
- First-team All-Pro (1999)
- Second-team All-Pro (1998)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1998, 1999, 2001, 2002)
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (1996)
- New England Patriots All-1990s Team
- New England Patriots All-2000s Team
- Unanimous All-American (1995)
- First-team All-Pac-10 (1995)
- Jack Tatum Trophy (1995)
Lawyer Milloy was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1996. He spent four seasons with the Patriots, before joining the Buffalo Bills in 2003. In 2005, he joined Atlanta Falcons and played for two more seasons before signing with Seattle Seahawks in 2009.
Lawyer Milloy appeared in all 16 games of his rookie season with Seattle, but injuries limited him to just nine appearances over the following three years.
He made a return to form during the 2010 campaign and helped lead Seattle to their first-ever Super Bowl victory – which they subsequently lost against Green Bay Packers Lawyer Milloy was a dominant defender in the NFL for nearly two decades.
He played for the Patriots from 1990 to 2002 and was named an All-Pro four times. He also has one Super Bowl championship under his belt, as well as being selected to three Pro Bowls.
Milloy is best known for his work against quarterbacks, tallying 21 quarterback sacks in his career - fourth all-time behind DeMarcus Ware, Jason Taylor, and Bruce Smith. After retiring from football, he opened up a law firm with his brother and currently works there full-time.
47. Jacob Tamme
Tight end
Career
- High school: Boyle County High School
- College: Kentucky
- NFL Draft: 2008 / Round: 4 / Pick: 127
- Indianapolis Colts (2008–2011), Denver Broncos (2012–2014), Atlanta Falcons (2015–2016), Los Angeles Kiss (2017)
- Receptions: 259, Receiving yards: 2,570, Receiving average: 9.9, Receiving touchdowns: 14
- Receptions: 259
- Receiving yards: 2,570
- Receiving average: 9.9
- Receiving touchdowns: 14
Jacob Tamme is a tight end for the Denver Broncos. He was drafted by the team in 2008 and has been with them ever since. Jacob Tamme played college football at Kentucky, where he caught 128 passes for 1,721 yards and 15 touchdowns in three seasons.
Jacob Tamme entered the NFL as a fourth-round pick and has had success there, recording over 500 receptions for 5,946 yards and 49 touchdowns in his career so far.
Jacob Tamme's playing style revolves around catching the ball well out of bounds or behind the line of scrimmage to keep drives alive; this skillset has helped him be one of Denver's most important players on offense over the years.
JacobTamme will likely retire after this season; whether or not he retires from professional football entirely remains to be seen Jacob Tamme is a former wide receiver for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos. He played college football at Georgia Tech.
Jacob Tamme has been in the NFL for six seasons, all with different teams (Indianapolis, Denver, Atlanta, Los Angeles). Jacob Tamme was signed by the Falcons as an unrestricted free agent in 2015.
In 2016 he was released by Atlanta and signed with the Broncos where he spent two seasons before being waived in 2017 and signing with the LA Kiss.
48. Dont'a Hightower
Career
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LIII)
- Second-team All-Pro (2016)
- 2× Pro Bowl (2016, 2019)
- New England Patriots All-2010s Team
- New England Patriots All-Dynasty Team
- 2× BCS national champion (2009, 2011)
- Consensus All-American (2011)
- First-team All-SEC (2011)
Hightower is a linebacker for the New England Patriots and has been with the team since 2012. Hightower was drafted by the New England Patriots in 2012, and he quickly became a key player on their defense.
Hightower has won several awards throughout his career, including being named to three Pro Bowls and two All-Pro teams. Hightower is also known for his leadership skills, and he often leads by example on the field.
Hightower is set to continue playing with the New England Patriots until 2021 Dont'a Hightower was a 3x Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots and 2x Pro Bowler. In 2011, Dont'a Hightower was voted as the consensus All-American and first-team All-SEC.
After being drafted by the Patriots in the second round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Dont’a Hightower quickly established himself as one of their most consistent defenders. In 2016, he won his first career Pro Bowl award after recording 77 tackles and 8 sacks that season.
The 2019 campaign saw him record 132 tackles (7th best on the team) and 2 interceptions while also forcing two fumbles which helped lead to another trip to Hawaii for the Pats.
49. Scott Case
Career
- High school: Edmond (OK)
- College: Oklahoma
- NFL Draft: 1984 / Round: 2 / Pick: 32
- Atlanta Falcons (1984–1994), Dallas Cowboys (1995)
- Super Bowl champion (XXX), Pro Bowl (1988), NFL Interceptions Leader (1988), All-Big Eight (1983)
- Games played: 178, Interceptions: 30, Sacks: 7.5, Touchdowns: 1
- Games played: 178
- Interceptions: 30
- Sacks: 7.5
- Touchdowns: 1
Scott Case was a safety for the Atlanta Falcons from 1984-1994 and for the Dallas Cowboys in 1995. He played college football at Oklahoma, where he won two national championships (1983, 1985).
In the NFL, Case started out as a defensive back but later moved to safety. He was inducted into both the Atlanta Falcons and Dallas Cowboys halls of fame in 2001 and 2003, respectively.
Scott Case is currently an assistant coach with his alma mater Edmond High School Scott Case was one of the most decorated players in NFL history, winning a Super Bowl and being named to multiple Pro Bowls.
Scott Case also had an impressive career on defense, leading the league in interceptions for three seasons. The Kansas City Chiefs drafted him with the first pick of the 1983 draft and he went on to have a long and successful career with them before retiring after the 1998 season.
After his retirement from football, Scott Case became Director of Player Development for the Chiefs, working there until 2010 when he took over as Vice President of Football Operations for the team.
In 2016, he was inducted into both the Kansas City Sports Hall of Fame and University of Kansas Athletic Hall of Fame.
50. LeGarrette Blount
Career
- High school: Perry (FL) Taylor County
- College: , East Mississippi CC (2006–2007), Oregon (2008–2009)
- Undrafted: 2010
- Tennessee Titans (2010)*, Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2010–2012), New England Patriots (2013), Pittsburgh Steelers (2014), New England Patriots (2014–2016), Philadelphia Eagles (2017), Detroit Lions (2018)
- * Offseason and/or practice squad member only
- 3× Super Bowl champion (XLIX, LI, LII), NFL rushing touchdowns leader (2016), PFWA All-Rookie Team (2010)
- Rushing yards: 6,306, Rushing average: 4.2, Rushing touchdowns: 56, Receptions: 64, Receiving yards: 454, Receiving touchdowns: 2
- Rushing yards: 6,306
- Rushing average: 4.2
- Rushing touchdowns: 56
- Receptions: 64
- Receiving yards: 454
- Receiving touchdowns: 2
LeGarrette Blount is a running back who was drafted by the Tennessee Titans in 2010. He played for the Titans from 2010 to 2017, before being released by the team in February 2018.
In June 2018, Blount signed with the New England Patriots. He has made five career playoff appearances, including two Super Bowls (XLIX and LI). LeGarrette Blount has also won one NFL rushing title and been named an All-Pro twice.
LeGarrette Blount is a running back who has played for four different teams in the NFL. He has been a part of two Super Bowl-winning squads, and he was also named to the Pro Football Writers Association All-Rookie Team in 2010.
LeGarrette Blount often runs through defenders with ease, and his physical style of play makes him an dangerous player on the field.
He is known for being hardworking and passionate about playing football, which may be why he has had such success over the years. LeGarrette Blount’s time with the New England Patriots ended poorly this past season after he was suspended for violating team rules multiple times.
However, he will likely continue to be one of the most feared runners in the league as long as he remains healthy.
51. Chris Hogan
Career
- San Francisco 49ers (2011)*
- New York Giants (2011)*
- Miami Dolphins (2011–2012)*
- Buffalo Bills (2012–2015)
- New England Patriots (2016–2018)
- Carolina Panthers (2019)
- New York Jets (2020)
- New Orleans Saints (2021)
Chris Hogan is a wide receiver for the New England Patriots and was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 2011 but did not sign with them. He then signed with the New York Giants, where he played from 2011 to 2015 before being traded to the Patriots.
In 2017, Hogan had his best season yet as a Patriot recording 89 receptions for 1,106 yards and six touchdowns.
Hogan has also been involved in two Super Bowls (2017 and 2018) and won one of them against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2018 Hogan started his career with the Miami Dolphins, where he caught 220 receptions for 2,836 yards and 19 touchdowns.
He then spent a year with the Buffalo Bills before signing with the New England Patriots in 2016. Hogan has been one of Tom Brady's go-to receivers over the years, amassing 1,077 receiving yards and nine touchdowns through 16 games in 2018.
The Carolina Panthers acquired him this offseason as they look to reload after losing several key players from last season's Super Bowl run.
Hogan is coming off a Pro Bowl season where he led all NFL wide receivers in touchdown catches (14).
Final Words
. . The Atlanta Falcons have been to the Super Bowl four times, in 1984, 1996, 2016 and 2017. Each time they have come up short. They narrowly lost their first two appearances (1984 and 1996) before making it back to the big game in 2004 with a 44-13 victory over the New England Patriots.
However, they could not keep up that momentum and were beaten by the Pittsburgh Steelers 31-24 in 2005. Finally, after losing three consecutive regular season games leading up to their matchup against the Green Bay Packers in 2014, Atlanta made it back once again as victors 46-21 over Seattle Seahawks