Middle Linebacker
No. 62
Villanova
"The old pro of the Jets defense, Atkinson spent 1974 as a backup to middle linebacker Jamie Rivers. After being a starter for over eight years, he made the adjustment to the backup role well and was a teacher for the younger players.
He started the finale against the Colts at MLB and also worked there against Buffalo in both meetings. Al recovered a fumble against the Bills at Shea which led to the Jets' first touchdown of a 20-10 upset. He stayed injury-free after 1973 had been clouded by a severe muscle pull in his left thigh; he spent seven weeks on the inactive list that year.
Atkinson closes down well at the point of attack. He has had injuries in the last few years, ankle problems sidelining him in 1971 and 1972.
He played the second half of Super Bowl III with a separated shoulder, not telling anyone about it. Al was a 3rd round choice of Buffalo in 1965, but came to the Jets just prior to the season opener for the $100 waiver fee. He earned a starting role for the final two games of '65 after good special teams work.
Al is an active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and made a tour of Vietnam after the 1968 season in conjunction with the USO. He owns Al Atkinson Angus Restaurant in Philadelphia. His hometown is Upper Darby, Pennsylvania."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
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