Atlanta Falcons legend Jeff Van Note dies at 80

Atlanta Falcons legend and franchise icon Jeff Van Note has died at the age of 80. The team announced his passing on Friday, though no cause of death was disclosed.

Van Note spent his entire 18-season NFL career with the Falcons after being drafted out of the University of Kentucky in the 11th round in 1969. Originally drafted as a linebacker, he was moved to center by head coach Norm Van Brocklin and earned the starting position in 1970. He became a cornerstone of the offensive line, appearing in 246 games and starting 226 of them.

His accolades include six Pro Bowl selections and two Second-Team All-Pro honors in 1979 and 1982. He was inducted into the Falcons’ Ring of Honor in 2006 and his number 57 is retired by the franchise.

Following his retirement in 1986, Van Note transitioned into media, working as a color commentator for football broadcasts and contributing to Atlanta sports radio. Falcons owner Arthur Blank praised him as a defining figure who embodied toughness and commitment to the organization.