Forgotten Falcons: Alfred Jenkins

If you’re reading this, then you’re probably a Falcons fan. And if you’re a Falcons fan, then you are probably familiar with the franchise’s tortured history. In short, it’s not easy being us. But let’s give credit where credit is surely due: the Falcons have produced a long line of quality wide receivers. Falcons alum Alfred Jenkins is no exception to that rule.

Jenkins joined the Falcons as a 23 year old in 1975. He went undrafted in the 1974 NFL Draft after playing four years at Morris Brown. (That draft had 17 rounds and a whopping 442 players were selected.) That’s hard to comprehend, given how his career played out. But his stature (he stands 5’9) and the fact that he didn’t play for a collegiate football powerhouse didn’t help his cause. Jenkins wasn’t dissuaded, playing one year in the World Football League before the Falcons snatched him up.

Jenkins’ best years were 1980-1981. He made the Pro Bowl both years. In 1981, he logged 1,358 receiving yards and 13 receiving touchdowns, leading the league both categories as a 29 year old.

Jenkins played in 110 games over 9 years with the Falcons, never suiting up for another NFL team. He racked up 6,267 receiving yards and 40 receiving touchdowns. Among Falcons receivers (past and current), Jenkins still ranks 4th all-time in receiving yards and 5th all-time in receiving touchdowns. It’s worth noting that he averaged 17.4 yards/reception. That’s more yards/reception than Andre Rison, Terance Mathis, Roddy White, and Julio Jones.

Jenkins still calls Atlanta home. He apparently lives in College Park and worked as a teacher and mason after his career wrapped in 1983.

Your thoughts about this Falcons legend?