George Atkinson, Legendary Raiders Safety, Passes Away at 78

George Atkinson, a prominent figure in the history of American football and a key member of the Oakland Raiders’ celebrated “Soul Patrol,” has died at the age of 78. The team confirmed his passing on Monday, marking the loss of one of the last surviving members of a defensive backfield that left a lasting impact on the NFL during the 1970s.

Atkinson’s most notable achievement came in 1977 when he played a pivotal role in helping the Raiders secure their first Super Bowl title, defeating the Minnesota Vikings 32-14 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena. His aggressive playing style and fierce competitiveness embodied the spirit of the Raiders, and he remained an integral part of the organization long after his playing days ended. Atkinson maintained a close relationship with Raiders owner Mark Davis and contributed as a member of the team’s announcing team for many years.

In a statement, the Raiders expressed their deep sorrow over Atkinson’s death, saying, “The Raiders Family is deeply saddened by the passing of George Atkinson, a life-long Raider whose physical style of play helped define an era of football. George’s contributions as a friend and mentor to everyone in the Raiders organization continued long after his playing career, and his genuine personality and wonderful sense of humor will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him.”

Despite his successes, Atkinson’s later years were marked by profound tragedy. He faced the devastating loss of both of his twin sons, George III and Josh, who died 11 months apart by suicide. Josh passed away on Christmas Day in 2018 at the age of 26, while George III, who joined the Raiders in 2014, died in November 2019 at 27.

Standing at 6 feet and weighing 180 pounds, Atkinson’s playing style was characterized by aggression and intimidation, often defying the norms for a safety of his size. Playing alongside the fearsome Jack Tatum, Atkinson formed part of a defensive unit that included cornerbacks Willie Brown and Skip Thomas, known collectively as the “Soul Patrol.” Their reputation for physical play was so significant that it influenced NFL rules; in 1979, the league implemented the five-yard chuck rule to limit the defensive hold on receivers.

Hall of Fame quarterback Fran Tarkenton noted the defensive prowess of Atkinson and his teammates, stating, “There was nothing like them. Wide receivers could not get off the line of scrimmage against them.” Tarkenton vividly recalled the Raiders’ dominance during Super Bowl XI, where they showcased their physical style against the Vikings.

Atkinson was drafted in the seventh round from Morris Brown College in 1968, and he quickly proved his worth by earning the American Football League’s co-Defensive Rookie of the Year honors. His career spanned 11 seasons, during which he made two All-Star game appearances and helped the Raiders reach five consecutive AFC Championship games.

While Atkinson’s toughness was often celebrated, it sometimes led to contentious moments on the field. One notable incident occurred in the 1976 season opener when he knocked out Hall of Fame receiver Lynn Swann with a blow to the neck. This prompted criticism, including comments from Steelers coach Chuck Noll, who labeled Atkinson as part of pro football’s “criminal element.” Atkinson, however, remained unapologetic, stating, “I just played the game the way I thought it was meant to be played.”

Atkinson also relished his role as a trash talker, often engaging with opponents both verbally and physically. His reputation was such that former Miami Dolphins great Paul Warfield remarked that receivers needed to exercise extreme caution when facing the Raiders. “When you went over the middle against Oakland and didn’t account for Tatum and Atkinson, you would not be in the game long without being carried off the field,” he said.

George Atkinson’s legacy as a hard-hitting safety and a beloved figure within the Raiders organization will be remembered by fans and players alike. His contributions to the sport and the friendships he forged throughout his life will endure long after his passing.