Geno Smith Expresses Heartfelt Regret Following the Passing of Raiders Defensive Legend George Atkinson at 78
Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Geno Smith has publicly expressed his deep sorrow after learning of the passing of George Atkinson, the iconic defensive back for the Oakland Raiders, who died at the age of 78. Atkinson, renowned for his aggressive style of play and instrumental role in the Raiders' defensive powerhouse during the 1970s, has left behind an indelible mark on the team and the sport as a whole.
Atkinson, a standout safety, played a key role in the Raiders' defense and was known for his physical, hard-hitting approach to the game. He was an integral part of the Raiders’ Super Bowl-winning team in 1976 and helped solidify the team’s reputation for toughness and resilience. His contributions were not only on the field but also in shaping the culture of the Raiders, which continues to resonate in the franchise to this day.
Geno Smith, who grew up watching the Raiders and has often spoken about his admiration for their legendary players, took to social media to pay tribute to Atkinson. "It’s hard to put into words the impact George Atkinson had on the game and on all of us who grew up watching him," Smith said. "His physicality, his leadership, and the way he carried himself on and off the field set a standard that we all strive for. My heart goes out to his family, his teammates, and everyone who was touched by his legacy."
Atkinson’s legacy extends beyond just his playing days. His fearsome reputation as a hitter was part of a broader defensive identity that helped propel the Raiders to national prominence in the 1970s. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Atkinson was a key figure in the team's famous "Soul Patrol" defense, which struck fear into opposing offenses and became one of the NFL's defining defensive units of the era.
Former teammates, coaches, and fans have also shared their tributes, reflecting on Atkinson’s contributions both on and off the field. Raiders’ owner Mark Davis called him "one of the fiercest competitors the game has ever known," while longtime NFL analyst and former player Warren Sapp described Atkinson as "a trailblazer for physicality in the game."
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Atkinson was known for his community involvement and his efforts to mentor younger players, leaving a lasting impact that went far beyond football. His untimely passing has left a void in the hearts of those who knew him and those who admired his work.
As the NFL community comes to terms with this loss, Atkinson's legacy will undoubtedly live on, not only through the players who followed in his footsteps but also in the culture he helped build in Oakland. Geno Smith’s heartfelt remarks echo the sentiments of many across the league, honoring the life and legacy of one of the game’s greats.
Atkinson is survived by his family, friends, and a legacy of greatness that will continue to inspire future generations of football players.
McCarthy Declares Himself as the Sole Quarterback Option for the Rest of the Season Following Wentz’s Injury
With Carson Wentz placed on the injured reserve list, head coach Mike McCarthy has made it clear that he will be the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. In a bold and definitive statement, McCarthy confirmed that he will take over the reins under center, putting an end to any speculation about potential changes at the position.
"I’m ready to step up and lead this team," McCarthy said in a recent press conference. "With Carson out, I’m the guy now. It’s a big responsibility, and I’m fully committed to giving everything I have to help this team succeed. We’ve got a lot of football left to play, and I’m confident in our ability to finish strong."
McCarthy’s statement comes after Wentz’s injury left the team without a clear starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. While McCarthy has had limited starting experience, the coaching staff believes he has the leadership qualities and skill set to guide the team through the rest of the campaign.
The decision to make McCarthy the full-time starter is a significant shift, but it also signals the team’s trust in him to manage the offense. The quarterback position has been a source of inconsistency for the team this season, and McCarthy’s leadership will be crucial as they look to find stability in the second half of the year.
McCarthy, who has worked closely with the offense throughout the season, expressed confidence in his ability to execute the team’s game plan. "I’ve been preparing for this moment, and I’m confident in the system we’ve put in place. Our offensive line, the running backs, and the receiving corps are ready to support me, and together, we’re going to keep pushing forward," McCarthy said.
As the team prepares for the challenges ahead, all eyes will be on McCarthy to see how he handles the starting role. With the pressure on, McCarthy’s performance will play a crucial role in determining the team's chances for the rest of the season.
