Raiders Mourn Death of George Atkinson
The Raiders community is mourning the loss of George Atkinson, a beloved figure in their history. His passing has resonated deeply among fans, teammates, and coaches.
George Atkinson: A Legacy of Impact
George Atkinson was selected by the Raiders in the seventh round of the 1968 NFL Draft. He played college football at Morris Brown and quickly made a mark as an exceptional defensive back and return specialist.
Career Highlights
- Back-to-back AFL All-Star selections in his first two seasons.
- Part of the legendary “Soul Patrol” secondary during the 1970s.
- Instrumental in leading the Raiders to five consecutive AFC Championship Games.
- Contributed to the Raiders’ victory in Super Bowl XI after the 1976 season.
Atkinson’s playing style was characterized by physicality and intensity, shaping an era in football that many fans still celebrate today.
A Fond Farewell
After retiring, George remained involved with the Raiders organization as a mentor and friend. His warm personality and strong sense of humor left a lasting impression on everyone he met.
The Raider Nation extends its thoughts and prayers to his family, including Denise, Brittany, Maya, Angela, and Craig, during this challenging time.
Remembering George Atkinson
George Atkinson’s legacy as a player, teammate, and mentor will always be cherished. His contributions to the Raiders will not be forgotten, and he will be deeply missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him.
