This week, Atlanta Falcons fans are in for a treat as the team sports their beloved throwback uniforms against the Tennessee Titans. Adding to the excitement, these classic black throwbacks will also grace the field on October 27th when the Seattle Seahawks come to town, and again on Thanksgiving Day against division rivals, the New Orleans Saints. This multiple-game throwback schedule presents a perfect opportunity to delve into the captivating history of the Atlanta Falcons Football Uniforms. Join us as we journey through the evolution of the Falcons’ attire, from their inception to the present day.
1966-1970: The Inaugural Era
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The 1966 season marked the Atlanta Falcons’ entry into the National Football League, and their inaugural uniforms were instantly distinctive. Breaking away from typical league designs, the Falcons debuted with black jerseys featuring crisp white numbers, paired with white pants and striking red helmets. This initial look bears a strong resemblance to the throwback uniforms that Falcons fans fondly remember from the early 2000s, showcasing a timeless aesthetic from the very beginning.
A unique detail of these early Atlanta Falcons football uniforms was the inclusion of thin gold stripes on the helmet. Legend has it that these stripes were added to appease Georgia Tech fans, who felt the Falcons’ color scheme was too similar to that of the University of Georgia. Regardless of the reason, these twin gold stripes adorned the Falcons helmets from 1966 to 1969 and remain a cherished element among many long-time supporters. Iconic Falcons players such as linebacker Tommy Nobis and defensive end Claude Humphrey proudly wore these original uniforms, etching them into franchise history.
1971-1977: The Red Jersey Introduction
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The 1971 season ushered in the first significant alteration to the Atlanta Falcons football uniforms. In a bold move, the team transitioned from black jerseys to red, marking a visual shift for the franchise. This era of Falcons uniforms, characterized by the vibrant red tops, was worn by popular figures like quarterback Steve Bartkowski and wide receiver Alfred Jenkins. These red-jersey uniforms became synonymous with the Atlanta Falcons throughout the majority of the 1970s, establishing a new visual identity.
1978-1989: Silver Pants and a Memorable Season
Silver made its debut in the Atlanta Falcons color palette in 1978. This update saw the white pants replaced with sleek silver pants, adding a modern touch to the Falcons uniform. The introduction of silver proved to be a lasting design choice, remaining a key component of the team’s color scheme until the 2002 season. Further refining the look, the collar stripes were enhanced with more detail, and the road uniforms’ numbers transitioned from black to red, improving visibility and consistency.
These Atlanta Falcons football uniforms are particularly memorable for longtime fans, coinciding with a period of growing success for the team. The 1980 season stands out, as the Falcons achieved a then-franchise-best record of 12-4 while sporting this silver-pant look. Another subtle but notable change occurred in 1984 when the Falcons switched from white facemasks to black, a feature that has remained consistent ever since. Quarterback Steve Bartkowski and running back Gerald Riggs are among the notable players who donned these silver-accented uniforms.
1990-1996: The Black Helmet Era
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As the Atlanta Falcons entered the 1990s, they embraced another uniform transformation. Black jerseys were reintroduced as the team’s home attire, marking a return to their roots. However, this time, the black jerseys were accompanied by striking black helmets, a first for the franchise. Red, a long-standing primary color, was significantly minimized in this design. The only red accents were thin stripes on the pants and around the jersey numbers. Even the away jerseys adopted black numbers and black socks, creating a distinctly darker and more modern aesthetic. This uniform shift signaled a new direction for the Atlanta Falcons football uniforms, paving the way for further evolution.
1997-2002: Red Returns to the Away Uniforms
The Atlanta Falcons refined their 1990s look by reintroducing red to the away uniforms, adding a touch of classic Falcons color to the road game attire. While the home uniforms largely remained consistent with the black jersey and helmet combination, the away jerseys were revitalized with the return of red numbers and red socks. This era of Atlanta Falcons football uniforms is intrinsically linked to a period of unprecedented success for the franchise. Donning these uniforms, the Falcons achieved their first Super Bowl appearance and made history as the first NFL team to secure a playoff victory on the road against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. It’s safe to say these uniforms hold a special place in the hearts of many Atlanta Falcons fans, representing a golden era for the team.
2003-2008: A Modern Logo and Alternate Jerseys
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Prior to the 2003 season, the Atlanta Falcons underwent a revolutionary brand overhaul, reflected in their updated Atlanta Falcons football uniforms. This comprehensive change included not only new uniform designs but also the introduction of a brand-new team logo, modernizing the Falcons’ visual identity. For the first time in franchise history, the Falcons also introduced an alternate jersey, rotating between red and black options to add versatility to their on-field look. The black alternate uniform from this era remains a fan favorite, with many still longing for its return. Another short-lived but stylish element was the Falcons’ black pants, which added a sleek, monochrome option before disappearing after the 2008 season.
2009-Present: Back to Basics with a Throwback Nod
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The 2009 season marked a return to a more classic aesthetic for the Atlanta Falcons football uniforms. While retaining elements of the 2003 design, the team opted to replace their black alternate uniform with a throwback jersey. This throwback design is similar to the ones they sport today, albeit with a key difference: the throwback omits the red helmet due to the NFL’s now-relaxed one-helmet rule (previously a stricter one-helmet rule was in place). Since 2009, the Falcons’ uniforms have remained largely consistent, with minor tweaks such as a Color Rush uniform and adjustments to the collar design prior to the 2017 season.
Many fans speculated that the opening of the state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium might coincide with a significant uniform update, but that wasn’t the case. While some modern uniform designs by Nike might spark apprehension about drastic changes, many Falcons enthusiasts express a desire for a return to a more classic Falcons look, particularly hoping for the reintroduction of black helmets for regular use.
Ultimately, the Atlanta Falcons football uniforms have undergone several transformations throughout the franchise’s history, each reflecting different eras and fan preferences. Which Falcons uniforms resonate most with you? And do you believe the team is due for another uniform evolution in the years to come?
