Jeff Van Note, Falcons center, dies at 80

Dustin JudgeDustin Judge
Jeff Van Note

Jeff Van Note, a six-time Pro Bowl center who spent all 18 seasons of his NFL career with the Atlanta Falcons, has died at 80, the team announced Friday. Van Note was a member of the Falcons’ Ring of Honor and one of the most durable linemen of his era.

The Falcons did not announce a cause of death.

The main development

Falcons owner and chairman Arthur Blank confirmed the news in a statement released by the team. “We mourn the loss of a true Falcons legend,” Blank said, according to NFL.com. “Jeff Van Note dedicated 18 seasons to this franchise and became one of the most respected and beloved players in our history. He embodied toughness, resilience, humility, and an unwavering commitment to his team, qualities that earned him the admiration of generations of Falcons fans.”

Blank also extended condolences to Van Note’s family. “On behalf of the Falcons family, we extend our deepest sympathies to his children, Beau, Ben, and Blaine, and all who are grieving this tremendous loss,” Blank said. “Jeff will always hold a special place in the history and heart of the Atlanta Falcons.”

What it means

Van Note’s death closes the book on one of the most reliable careers in Falcons history. Selected by the Falcons in the 11th round of the 1969 NFL Draft out of Kentucky, Van Note initially played linebacker before coach Norm Van Brocklin converted him to center. He earned the starting position the following season and held it for the remainder of his career.

“Jeff’s contributions to this organization cannot be measured solely by his accomplishments on the field,” Blank said. “He helped shape the identity of the Atlanta Falcons and left a legacy that will endure for years to come.”

Context: an 18-year iron man

Van Note missed just four games across his entire 18-year career, starting 226 of 246 games. He earned six Pro Bowl selections and was a second-team All-Pro in both 1979 and 1982.

After retiring in 1986, Van Note stayed close to the game and the city, working as a color commentator for the Falcons and the Kentucky Wildcats and making regular appearances on Atlanta sports radio. The Falcons inducted him into their Ring of Honor in 2006, cementing his place among the franchise’s all-time greats.

What’s next

The Falcons have not announced plans for a public tribute or memorial service. Further details on arrangements are expected from the team in the coming days.

Reporting from Yahoo Sports, CBS Sports and NFL.com contributed to this story.

Dustin Judge

Dustin Judge is the Founder and CEO of Total Apex Media, bringing more than 20 years of writing and editorial experience to the company's growing network of digital publications. He specializes in sports, sports betting, fantasy sports, and digital publishing, with a focus on producing accurate, timely, and engaging content for readers. Dustin oversees editorial strategy, content development, and publishing operations across Total Apex Media while remaining actively involved in sports, betting, and fantasy sports coverage.