LOS ANGELES, United States (AFP) — Tommy Nobis, the first player drafted by the NFL’s expansion Atlanta Falcons in 1966, died on Wednesday at the age of 74, the team said.
The Falcons said Nobis died at his suburban Atlanta home after an extended illness with his wife, Lynn, by his side.
“Tommy’s legacy began as the first Falcons player in team history, was built over 40 years with the organization and will live on for years to come,” team owner Arthur Blank said in a statement.
“Mr. Falcon is rightfully beloved by generations of Falcons fans and we will always be grateful for his many contributions to our team and community.”
Nobis starred on both sides of the line at the University of Texas, winning the Maxwell Award as the best all-around player in college football and the Outland Trophy as the top lineman.
He was selected first overall by the Falcons in the 1966 NFL draft and fifth overall by the American Football League’s Houston Oilers. Nobis elected to play for Atlanta.
He earned NFL rookie of the year honors and five Pro Bowl selections while leading the team in tackles nine times during his 11-year career. His No. 60 has never been worn by any other Atlanta player.
© Agence France-Presse
