He was known as one of the greatest defensive linemen ever to play the game, often times referred to as the greatest.
He enjoyed a 17-year NFL career.
And he was an All-American with the Tennessee Vols, helping them win the 1951 national championship and becoming one of three players with the program to have his jersey retired.
Former Tennessee football star Doug Atkins died on Wednesday in Knoxville at age 85, according to a report from GVX247.
Atkins is considered by all accounts one of the Top 10 Vols to ever play for the program.