Las Vegas Raiders: 15 best draft-day steals of all-time

Back in 1968, the Raiders used a seventh-round selection on safety from Morris Brown College. Little did they know that this safety would become one of the franchise’s most versatile and memorable players. That safety was George Atkinson. He transitioned from safety to cornerback initially but played all over the secondary during his career with the Raiders.

Atkinson tallied 30 interceptions, good for fifth all-time in franchise history, over the course of 144 games. Despite being great as a safety, Atkinson provided most of his value as a returner for the Raiders. For kick returns, Atkinson ranks seventh in franchise history with 76 returns for 1,893 yards.

Where Atkinson did most of his damage was on punt returns. Boy, was he ever electric in that endeavor. On 148 punt returns, Atkinson recorded 1,247 yards and three touchdowns. He set a franchise record with 205 punt return yards in a single game. It is a record that still stands today and will likely never be broken.

Atkinson’s value to the franchise was two-fold as a defensive starter and returner. He helped the Raiders win a Super Bowl in 1977, right before he played in his final season for the franchise. His legacy lives on and he is still an active member of Raider Nation. His broadcasting/television career revolves around the Raiders. He clearly has a lot of love for his former team.