Falcons Legend Jeff Van Note Died at Age 80
The longtime center played 18 seasons in Atlanta and earned six Pro Bowl selections during his career.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Football
The Atlanta Falcons announced on October 2, 2026, that franchise legend Jeff Van Note has died at the age of 80. A cornerstone of the organization, Van Note played 246 games for the team between 1969 and 1986.
Why it matters
Van Note represents a foundational era for the Atlanta Falcons, having evolved from a college linebacker into one of the most durable and decorated offensive players in team history. His legacy remains cemented by his 18-season tenure and his eventual induction into the club's Ring of Honor.
Van Note was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and earned second-team All-Pro honors twice during his 246-game career. Selected in the 11th round of the 1969 NFL draft, he transitioned from linebacker to center to anchor the team's offensive line.
The players
Jeff Van Note
He was a storied Atlanta Falcons center who played 18 seasons for the franchise.
Atlanta Falcons
They are the professional football franchise in the NFL that drafted Van Note in 1969.
University of Alabama
This is the collegiate institution where Van Note played as a linebacker before his professional career.
The details
After being drafted in 1969, Van Note converted from his collegiate position at the University of Alabama to become the Falcons' starting center by 1970. He maintained his role as a team leader for nearly two decades before retiring following the 1986 season.
Timeline
Jeff Van Note was selected in the 1969 NFL draft.
Van Note became a full-time starter in 1970.
Van Note concluded his 18-season tenure in 1986.
Van Note was inducted into the Falcons Ring of Honor in 2006.
The death of Jeff Van Note was announced on October 2, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Van Note's passing serves as a retrospective on the historical foundation of the Atlanta Falcons, contrasting his era of long-term franchise loyalty with modern roster volatility. His career long-standing marks continue to set the benchmark for the longevity expected of core team members.
Van Note holds the franchise record for total games played at 246, a standard of durability that few modern players are likely to challenge. His departure marks a significant moment for the team's historical record-keeping and franchise heritage.
The takeaway
Van Note's career exemplifies the value of organizational stability and positional versatility in professional sports. His transition from a college linebacker to an elite NFL center serves as a testament to the discipline required for long-term athletic success.
Further reading
Explore more team history on the Atlanta Football section page.
