George Atkinson, a renowned former NFL player and Super Bowl champion, passed away at the age of 78, the Las Vegas Raiders organization announced on Monday. Atkinson was a key member of the Raiders’ famed "Soul Patrol" secondary during the 1970s, a period when the team gained national prominence and achieved significant success on the football field.
Atkinson’s professional football career began when he was selected by the Raiders in the seventh round of the 1968 NFL Draft out of Morris Brown College. He quickly made an impact as a defensive back and return specialist, earning the American Football League (AFL) Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 1968. His immediate success was further highlighted by back-to-back selections to the AFL All-Star game in his first two seasons, a testament to his skill and tenacity on the field.
Over his career, Atkinson played for the Raiders from 1968 to 1977, before spending a final season with the Denver Broncos. Throughout his decade-long career, he played in 144 games, accumulating 30 interceptions and scoring two defensive touchdowns. Atkinson was known for his physical style of play and was feared by opposing offenses for his hard-hitting approach. Alongside fellow safety Jack Tatum, Atkinson formed one of the most intimidating defensive tandems in NFL history.
The Raiders credited Atkinson’s contributions for helping the team reach new heights. During the 1970s, the Raiders advanced to five consecutive AFC Championship games, culminating in a victory in Super Bowl XI following the 1976 season. In that championship game, Atkinson recorded six tackles, playing a pivotal role in the Raiders’ triumph over the Minnesota Vikings. His physicality and leadership on defense were key factors in the team’s dominance during that era.
One of Atkinson’s most memorable moments came from his fierce hits against Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Lynn Swann. In the 1975 AFC Championship game and the 1976 season opener, Atkinson delivered punishing tackles that knocked Swann out of both contests. These hits sparked controversy and drew the ire of Steelers coach Chuck Noll, who famously labeled Atkinson and some of his Raiders teammates as part of the NFL’s "criminal element" due to their aggressive playing style. Atkinson responded by filing a defamation lawsuit against Noll, though the suit was ultimately unsuccessful.
Despite the physical nature of his play, Atkinson emphasized that he and his teammates never intended to injure opponents unnecessarily. Reflecting on his defensive philosophy, Atkinson once said, "We never go out on the field with the intention of trying to hurt anyone but we go out with intentions of getting our jobs done. If you don’t want to get hit, it's best not to show up when we play Sunday. I guarantee you will get hit." This mindset encapsulated the hard-nosed, competitive spirit that defined the Raiders during his time with the team.
Beyond his playing days, Atkinson remained a beloved figure within the Raiders community. The organization’s statement mourning his loss highlighted his enduring role as a friend and mentor to players and staff alike. His genuine personality, sense of humor, and commitment to the team’s culture left a lasting impact that extended well beyond his on-field achievements. The Raiders expressed their condolences to Atkinson’s family, including his wife Denise and their children, sending prayers and support during this difficult time.
Atkinson’s legacy is intertwined with that of the Raiders’ "Soul Patrol," a nickname given to the defensive backfield group known for their athleticism, speed, and physicality. This defensive unit was a cornerstone of the Raiders’ success in the 1970s, setting a standard for future generations of players. Atkinson’s contributions to this era helped establish the Raiders as one of the NFL’s most formidable teams and left an indelible mark on the franchise’s history.
The sports community also took note of Atkinson’s passing, recognizing him as a pioneering figure who helped shape the modern game. His style of play, characterized by aggression balanced with skill, influenced how defensive backs approached their roles. As the NFL evolved, players like Atkinson paved the way for the physical yet strategic defensive play that remains a critical component of football today.
George Atkinson’s death marks the loss of a football icon whose career and character resonated with fans, teammates, and opponents alike. His journey from a college athlete at Morris Brown to a celebrated NFL champion reflects a story of determination,