Rankin Smith was an American businessman and the founder of the Atlanta Falcons football team. He was born in 1925 in Mississippi and grew up in Texas. Smith attended Southern Methodist University and served in the United States Navy during World War II.
After the war, Smith worked in the oil industry and later became involved in real estate development. In the 1960s, he became interested in bringing a professional football team to Atlanta, Georgia. He was successful in his efforts and founded the Atlanta Falcons in 1965.
Under Smith's ownership, the Falcons struggled in their early years, but eventually became a competitive team in the National Football League (NFL). In 1978, the Falcons made their first playoff appearance, and in 1980, they won their first division title.
Smith was known for his hands-off approach to team management, allowing his coaches and general managers to make decisions about personnel and strategy. He was also known for his loyalty to his employees, often retaining coaches and executives for long periods of time.
In addition to his work with the Falcons, Smith was involved in various business and civic organizations in Atlanta. He served on the board of directors for several companies, including Coca-Cola and Delta Air Lines. He was also a philanthropist, supporting various charitable causes in the Atlanta area.
Smith remained the owner of the Falcons until his death in 1997. His son, Taylor Smith, took over as team president and later sold the team to Arthur Blank in 2002.
Overall, Rankin Smith's legacy in the NFL is that of a successful businessman who brought professional football to Atlanta and helped build the Falcons into a competitive team. His hands-off approach to team management and loyalty to his employees are also notable aspects of his career.
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