Atkins originally went to the University of Tennessee on a baseball scholarship, but once the football coach saw his combination of size and agility, he was recruited for the grid team. After he earned All-America honors, the Cleveland Browns selected him as their first choice in the 1953 National Football League Draft.
After two seasons in Cleveland, he was traded to the Chicago Bears and there he developed into one of history's most awesome defensive performers. Exceptionally strong and agile, the 6-8, 257-pound Atkins earned legendary acclaim as a devastating pass rusher who would often leapfrog blockers to get at the passer. that was a skill that carried over from his collegiate days when he won the Southeastern Conference high jump title.
Longwell's kick lifts Vikings, spoils Bush's night Associated Press Mon, 06 Oct 2008 23:03:19 -0700 Visit ESPN.com for the complete story. Walk the plank: Raiders sack Kiffin after 1-3 start Chris Mortensen Wed, 01 Oct 2008 06:26:29 -0700 The inevitable became reality Tuesday when Lane Kiffin was fired by Raiders owner Al Davis via the telephone, according to team sources. Burress back from suspension: 'I was fine with it' ESPN.com news services Mon, 06 Oct 2008 18:18:05 -0700 An unapologetic Plaxico Burress rejoined the New York Giants on Monday, noting he didn't lose any sleep after the Super Bowl champions suspended him for a game. Eagles' Westbrook suffers broken ribs in return ESPN.com news services Mon, 06 Oct 2008 17:48:03 -0700 Brian Westbrook suffered two broken ribs in the Eagles' loss to the Redskins on Sunday. Status of Bills' Edwards uncertain after concussion Associated Press Mon, 06 Oct 2008 16:43:49 -0700 Bills quarterback Trent Edwards was described as alert but still experiencing post-concussion symptoms Monday, leaving his status uncertain as the team enters its bye week. Cards' Warner ponders retirement after Boldin hit Associated Press Mon, 06 Oct 2008 19:33:16 -0700 Cardinals quarterback Kurt Warner says that after this season he will take his closest look yet at retiring from the NFL.