George Atkinson, a prominent figure in the history of the Oakland Raiders, has died at the age of 78. The team officially announced his passing on Monday, marking the end of an era for the franchise. Atkinson was a cornerstone of the Raiders’ defensive line, known for his fierce play and contributions to the team’s legendary ‘Soul Patrol’ secondary in the 1970s.
Born in 1946, Atkinson began his pro football career with the Raiders in 1968. He was selected in the seventh round of the 1968 AFL Draft, out of Morris Brown College. Atkinson immediately made an impact, earning back-to-back AFL All-Star selections in his first two seasons and securing the 1968 AFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award. His ability to read the game and deliver explosive hits helped position him as one of the league’s premier cornerbacks.
Atkinson’s career with the Raiders spanned nine seasons, during which he became an integral part of the team’s defense. The ‘Soul Patrol’ secondary, which included players like Jack Tatum, became a hallmark of the Raiders’ defensive strategy under head coach Raiders’ head coach John Madden. This group played a crucial role in the team’s dominance during the 1970s, including four consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances and a Super Bowl win in 1976, which marked the Raiders’ first and only Super Bowl victory to date.
Following his playing career, Atkinson continued to contribute to the Raiders’ organization as a mentor and figurehead, passing along his knowledge and expertise to younger players. His legacy within the franchise is celebrated as a defining moment in the team’s storied history. The Raiders’ statement emphasized his impact as a player, mentor, and team leader, and expressed the deep sadness of the ‘Raider Nation’ at his passing.
Atkinson’s career was not without controversy. He was known for his aggressive style of play, and one of his most notable moments came in 1975 when he knocked out Steelers receiver Lynn Swann during an AFC Championship game. This incident sparked a debate over the NFL’s rules on physical play, and Atkinson’s reputation for delivering punishing hits was sometimes viewed as controversial. Despite the criticism, however, his contributions to the game were widely recognized, and his play was often credited with setting the tone for the Raiders’ defensive strategies.
Atkinson retired from the NFL in 1977 after playing for the Denver Broncos for one season. He finished his career with 30 interceptions and two touchdowns in 144 games, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defensive backs of his era. His legacy continues to be a part of Oakland Raiders’ history, with his contributions remembered as pivotal to the team’s success during the 1970s. His passing marks an emotional moment for the Raider Nation, as they mourn the loss of a player whose career helped define the history of American football.