– Former Falcon Fulton Kuykendall
– Kaptain Krazy.
Former Atlanta Falcons Linebacker, Kuykendall, Dies at 70
Background and Career
After a long battle with dementia, former Atlanta Falcons linebacker, Kuykendall, passed away early Thursday morning at a memory-care facility in Canton. He was 70 years old.
During his 10-year career with the Falcons from 1975 to 1984, Kuykendall played in 124 games, with 93 starts. He was a key member of the renowned 1977 Grits Blitz defense, which allowed an NFL record-low of only 129 points. Kuykendall played in five games that year before breaking his arm while tackling O.J. Simpson.
Despite his lanky 6-foot-4, 225-pound frame, Kuykendall embraced the role of a defensive mauler. His intensity and hitting ability earned him the nickname “Kaptain Krazy.”
Life After Football
After retiring from football, Kuykendall became an integral part of the medical community. He worked in the cardiac catheterization lab at Piedmont Hospital, showcasing his dedication to helping others. His wife, Sherry Kuykendall, revealed that his brain would be donated to Boston University for ongoing research into traumatic brain injury among NFL players. The rest of his body will be used for medical school studies at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Contradictions and Legacy
Kuykendall’s story was filled with contradictions. On the field, he played with ferocity and intensity, but off the field, he was quiet and unassuming. Teammates and caregivers described him as sweet and possessing a calm temperament.
However, the toll of football on Kuykendall’s body was evident. Throughout his life, he underwent 28 surgeries, including knee and shoulder replacements. His wife noted that he was part of the first successful players’ lawsuit against the NFL, where they accused the league of misinforming players about the dangers of brain injury.
Love for the Sport
Despite the physical and mental toll football took on him, Kuykendall never lost his love for the sport. His wife reminisced about their early days when his first salary was $19,000, and he was amazed that he could be paid to do what he loved.
Even after retirement, when asked if he would do it all again, Kuykendall’s answer was a resounding yes. His passion for football remained unwavering.
Survived by Family
Kuykendall is survived by his wife, Sherry, his son Trent Kuykendall, and three siblings. The family has not yet set a date for the memorial service.
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1. Former Falcon Fulton Kuykendall, known as Kaptain Krazy, dies at age 70
2. Former Falcon Fulton Kuykendall, also known as Kaptain Krazy, passes away at 70.
