Six-time Pro Bowl center Jeff Van Note, whose career with the Atlanta Falcons spanned parts of three decades, has died at age 80.
The Falcons announced the passing of their Ring of Honor member on Friday.
“We mourn the loss of a true Falcons legend,” team owner and chairman Arthur Blank said in a statement. “Jeff Van Note dedicated 18 seasons to this franchise and became one of the most respected and beloved players in our history. He embodied toughness, resilience, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his team, qualities that earned him the admiration of generations of Falcons fans.”
An 11th-round draft pick (262nd overall) in 1969, Van Note went on to play in 246 games with the Falcons from 1969-86. Only fellow offensive lineman and teammate Mike Kenn (251 games, 1978-94) made more appearances for Atlanta.
Drafted as a linebacker out of Kentucky, Van Note moved to the offensive line under Atlanta head coach Norm Van Brocklin and became the full-time starting center in 1970.
Van Note was a second-team All-Pro selection in 1979 and 1982 and made the Pro Bowl in 1974-75 and 1979-82. He was inducted into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame in 1999 and the Falcons Ring of Honor in 2006.
Following his playing career, Van Note served as a color commentator for Falcons and Kentucky football broadcasts through the 1990s.
“Jeff’s contributions to this organization cannot be measured solely by his accomplishments on the field,” Blank said. “He helped shape the identity of the Atlanta Falcons and left a legacy that will endure for years to come. We are grateful for everything he meant to this franchise and our community. On behalf of the Falcons family, we extend our deepest sympathies to his children, Beau, Ben, and Blaine, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss. Jeff will always hold a special place in the history and heart of the Atlanta Falcons.”
