Falcons Pro Bowler Jeff Van Note Dies at 80

Jeff Van Note, a six-time Pro Bowl center who spent all 18 of his NFL seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, has died at 80. The team announced the death on Friday, October 2, 2026, and gave no cause. Drafted in the 11th round out of Kentucky in 1969 as a linebacker, he was moved to center by coach Norm Van Brocklin and became the starter a year later. He missed only four games, was second-team All-Pro in 1979 and 1982, retired after 1986, and was inducted into the Falcons Ring of Honor in 2006. Owner Arthur Blank said the Falcons mourn "a true Falcons legend" who dedicated 18 seasons to the franchise, embodied toughness, resilience, humility and unwavering commitment, and helped shape the team's identity. Blank extended deepest sympathies to Van Note's children Beau, Ben and Blaine. The Falcons posted on X that his legacy will live on forever in franchise history and sent deepest condolences to family and friends. After retiring he worked as a color commentator for Falcons and Kentucky broadcasts and made radio appearances. CONTESTED: Associated Press reports he started 226 of 246 games; other outlets report 225 of 246 starts.