Claude Humphrey A Legacy of Grit...

Claude Humphrey, embodying "A Legacy of Grit and Greatness," dominated offensive lines. Wearing Number 87, the fearsome defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles, created a path of disruption, leading to his esteemed enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame for his remarkable career.

The legendary Claude Humphrey, born on June 29, forged his path from Tennessee State to NFL stardom. Primarily with the Atlanta Falcons and later the Philadelphia Eagles, he was a relentless force. His impact is celebrated in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, with June 29 often noted in his career milestones.

Known as Claude Humphrey, his "Legacy of Grit and Greatness" was built on fierce determination. Wearing Number 87, his performances for the Atlanta Falcons and Philadelphia Eagles were legendary. His journey from Tennessee State to the Pro Football Hall of Fame inspires, with June 29 marking his birth.

COLLEGE CAREER: Claude Humphrey played his college football at Tennessee State University, an HBCU, from 1964 to 1967. At Tennessee State, he was a three-time All-American defensive end, showcasing exceptional talent and a relentless motor. His dominant performances for the Tigers made him a high first-round NFL draft pick and set the stage for his impactful professional career.

ROAD TO THE PRO GAME: Selected third overall in the 1968 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons, Claude Humphrey made an immediate impact, earning NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year. He became the cornerstone of the Falcons' defense for a decade, wearing Number 87. Later, he joined the Philadelphia Eagles, significantly contributing to their 1980 NFC Championship and Super Bowl XV appearance, continuing his legacy of quarterback disruption.

FOOTBALL LEGACY: Claude Humphrey's football legacy is that of "A Legacy of Grit and Greatness," representing a dominant and feared pass-rushing force in the NFL for over a decade. He was renowned for his speed, power, and relentless pursuit of the quarterback, setting a standard for defensive ends of his era. His eventual induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame recognized his profound impact on the game.

ACCOLADES, AWARDS, AND CAREER STATS:

✦ Pro Football Hall of Fame (Class of 2014)

✦ NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year (1968)

✦ 6x Pro Bowl Selections (1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977)

✦ 5x First-team All-Pro (AP: 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974; NEA: 1977)

✦ 2x Second-team All-Pro (AP: 1970, 1977)

✦ Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor

Unofficially credited with 130 career sacks (sacks became an official NFL statistic in 1982; recorded 14.5 official sacks with the Philadelphia Eagles 1979-1981).
Key member of the Atlanta Falcons "Grits Blitz" defense.
Played in Super Bowl XV with the Philadelphia Eagles.