Did we forget about a legendary Atlanta Falcon?  Granted, there have not been that many in the past history of the Falcons, but we may very well have forgotten about a solid Linebacker in Tommy Nobis who was easily the first bright spot of the Southern franchise.

As one of the finest linebackers in collegiate history, Tommy Nobis was the first draft pick (and first overall of 1966) for the expansion Atlanta Falcons.  Nobis was a feared tackler and was the star of the early Falcons defensive squads.  He was a Pro Bowler in his first three seasons and would lead the Falcons in tackles on nine occasions.

Tommy Nobis is justifiably placed in the Falcons Ring of Honor, but he was not as dominate in the Pro ranks as he was at college.  It is very likely that his post career accolades will not ever leave the state of Georgia.

The Bullet Points:

Country of Origin:

San Antonio, Texas, U.S.A.

Eligible Since:

1982

Position:

Middle Linebacker

Played for:

Atlanta Falcons

College:

Texas

Drafted:

1^st Round, 1^st Overall in 1966

Major Accolades and Awards:

Pro Bowl Selections (5) (1966, 1967, 1968, 1970, & 1972)

First Team All Pro Selection (1) (1967)

NFL 1960’s All Decade Team

Other Points of Note:

None

Notable All Time Rankings:

None

Years Nominated for the Hall of Fame:

Never