The Atlanta Falcons lost one of their all-time greats on Wednesday. According to multiple media reports, five-time Pro Bowl linebacker and “Mr. Falcon” himself Tommy Nobis has passed away at the age of 74.
#BREAKING We are sad to report that "Mr. Falcon", the great Tommy Nobis, has passed away at the age of 74. The 5-time Pro Bowl linebacker played eleven years for the team and is a member of their ring of honor.
— FOX 5 Sports (@FOX5Sports) December 13, 2017
Nobis starred for the Falcons from 1966-1976 and was the organization’s first ever draft pick. He played college ball at Texas, and was a two-time First-Team All-American prior to being selected No. 1 overall back in 1966.
During his NFL career, Nobis intercepted 12 passes and was the best player on a Falcons team that failed to make the playoffs in any of his 11 seasons. Nobis ultimately saw his Falcons jersey retired and was given the team’s Ring of Honor distinction. To many, he was Hall of Fame caliber player.
Active in the Atlanta sports scene following his retirement in 1976, Nobis had fallen off the map prior to his death. Unfortunately, his family believes this has to do with traumatic brain injuries he suffered during his career.
“Something went awry in his brain, and he acted out. My dad played football, because he loved it, and he wouldn’t have changed a thing,” his daughter said back in 2016, via Sports on Earth. “There’s self-responsibility in all of that. When you smack your head against something at such momentum, it can’t be a good thing.”
It’s not yet known how Nobis passed away.
Our thoughts go out to the Falcons’ organization, Nobis’ family, the Texas football program and all those impacted by his death.