Tuesday, October 13, 2015

1976 Profile: Al Atkinson

Middle Linebacker
No. 62
Villanova
"The veteran of the Jets defense, Atkinson's injuries have hampered the last few years of his career. He missed the entire 1975 season on the injured reserve list with knee problems, and a severed muscle pull sidelined him in 1973. In 1974, he backed up starting middle linebacker Jamie Rivers.
Al started for eight seasons before assuming a backup role and teaching young players the NFL ropes. He came to the Jets for the $100 waiver price after originally being drafted by Buffalo in the third round in 1965. He earned a starting role in 1965. In the Jets' Super Bowl win, Al played the entire second half with a separated shoulder without telling anyone.
A three-year starter at Villanova, Al earned All-America and All-East honors. He played in the Liberty Bowl against Oregon State, and was voted the outstanding defensive lineman (tackle) in the Senior Bowl. He also played in the Coaches All-America game.
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."

-1976 New York Jets Media Guide

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