Atlanta’s longtime owner receives an honor from his own franchise.
Arthur Blank, the owner of the Atlanta Falcons, has officially been inducted into the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor, a tribute to his impact on the franchise and the city of Atlanta. Blank was officially added to the team’s most honored group during the Sunday Night Football game against the Kansas City Chiefs.
When Blank purchased the Falcons from Taylor Smith, the son of the team’s founder Rankin M. Smith Sr., he inherited a franchise that was struggling both on and off the field. His commitment to the team and the city has been unwavering, as evidenced by his simultaneous investment in Atlanta sports, including the acquisition of the Georgia Force in 2004 and the founding of Atlanta United FC, which quickly became a powerhouse in Major League Soccer since its inception in 2017.
In his memoir, Good Company, Blank reflects on pivotal moments in Atlanta sports history, sharing insights that had previously remained private. His approachable demeanor was evident even during his early days as owner. When the Falcons were preparing to play against the then St. Louis Rams, Blank chose to sit with the players on the plane, breaking down traditional barriers. He recounted, “As you know, I’m going to be the new team owner. Don’t worry, I’m not going to try and coach you or start drawing up plays. But I need to know, what can I do for you? What do you need?” This moment encapsulates his stated philosophy: a desire to connect and support rather than dictate.
Blank’s focus has always extended beyond the field. His philanthropic efforts have left an indelible mark on the community, with initiatives aimed at supporting youth, education, and the underprivileged. His leadership style emphasizes collaboration and empathy, traits that have resonated deeply within the organization. The on-field results have come and gone—though the Falcons have achieved greater success under Blank’s tenure as owner than at any point before he took over the franchise—but the philosophy has been consistent.
Blank joins an illustrious group in the Atlanta Falcons Ring of Honor, which includes legends such as Steve Bartkowski, Deion Sanders, Warrick Dunn, William Andrews, Gerald Riggs, Jeff Van Note, Jessie Tuggle, Tommy Nobis, Todd McClure, Mike Kenn, Roddy White, and Claude Humphrey, with the great Matt Ryan being inducted in a few weeks on October 3, 2024. Each of these players has made significant contributions to the team and the community, reflecting the same values that Blank champions as an owner.
His induction into this prestigious group is not merely a celebration of his ownership; it is a recognition of his commitment his deep-rooted connection to the Atlanta community.