FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – The Atlanta Falcons will induct defensive end Claude Humphrey and offensive tackle Mike Kenn into the team’s Ring of Honor during halftime festivities of Atlanta’s home contest against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, December 14, 2008. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.
Humphrey spent 10 seasons in a Falcons uniform from 1968-74, 76-78 and is currently the team’s all-time sack leader with 94.5. He was selected as the 1968 Defensive Rookie of the Year and earned six Pro Bowl honors throughout his career, tying Jeff Van Note for the most in team history. Humphrey’s five consecutive Pro Bowl nods from 1970-74 is also tied with current Falcons linebacker Keith Brooking and fellow inductee Mike Kenn for the most consecutive Pro Bowl appearances in team history. Humphrey was also voted the Falcons Player of the Year in 1976 after leading the team with 15.0 sacks, the second-highest total in a season in Falcons annals. In 127 career games, the Tennessee State alum recovered 11 fumbles, which ranks sixth in team history and also returned one fumble recovery for his only touchdown against the Minnesota Vikings on December 21, 1969.
Kenn was the 13th overall selection in the 1978 NFL Draft by Atlanta and spent his entire 17-year career in a Falcons uniform. He started every game he played in, setting a franchise record for the most career games played and the most career starts with 251. Kenn only missed nine games during his Atlanta tenure after beginning his career with 90 consecutive starts. The Michigan alum participated in six playoff games and was a member of an offensive line that allowed the lowest sack total (25) in a single season (1982) in team history. The Falcons amassed 30,455 total rushing yards and 188 rushing touchdowns during Kenn’s career with the team.
Humphrey and Kenn are the sixth and seventh players to be selected to Falcons Ring of Honor. They join running back Williams Andrews, quarterback Steve Bartkowski, linebacker Tommy Nobis and linebacker Jessie Tuggle who were inducted in 2004 and center Jeff Van Note who was inducted in 2006.
The Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor pays tribute to retired players who made significant contributions to the organization during their playing careers.
