Jessie Tuggle
Valdosta State University (Ga.)
Linebacker, 1983-86


A highly touted defensive force, Valdosta State’s Jessie Tuggle redefined the linebacker position in the Gulf South Conference en route to prolific collegiate and professional careers.

A First Team All-America selection, Tuggle was a three-time All-Conference pick and named the Gulf South Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 1986. He holds the school record for most tackles in a career (340) and was a two-time recipient of the Blazers’ Hugh C. Bailey Player of the Year award.

Tuggle’s No. 88 was retired in 1993 by VSU, where he was also inducted into the Athletic Hall of Fame in 1997 and named Distinguished Alumnus in 2002. Beloved by his alma mater, the school’s workout facility was named the Jessie Tuggle Strength & Fitness Complex in his honor.

“The Hammer” joined the Atlanta Falcons in 1987 as an undrafted free agent, and during his 13 years with the club, he made five NFL Pro Bowl appearances and finished his career with 2,065 tackles – the most in team history. Tuggle led the NFL in tackles in 1990 and ’91, while maintaining 12 consecutive 100-tackle seasons. Also a leader off the playing field, the Jessie Tuggle Humanitarian Award is given annually to a Falcon player who displays dedication to the community.


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