Jeff Van Note, the Falcons' 18-year anchor, dies at 80
Jeff Van Note, the Atlanta Falcons' all-time leading center and a six-time Pro Bowler, has died at age 80. He spent his entire 18-year NFL career with Atlanta, starting 225 of 246 games and missing only four. Drafted in 1969 as a linebacker, he was moved to center by coach Norm Van Brocklin and became a cornerstone of the franchise. After retiring in 1986, he worked as a color commentator in Atlanta sports media. The Falcons organization and owner Arthur Blank have issued statements mourning his passing, highlighting his resilience and commitment to the team.