Former Falcons defensive end John Thierry, who spent one season with the team in 2002, died of a heart attack this past Friday.

Thierry, 46, was a first-round (11th overall) draft pick of the Chicago Bears in 1994. He also played with the Browns and Packers.

After starring at Alcorn State, Thierry played in 131 games and made 70 starts over his career.

FILE PHOTO -- 020908 GREEN BAY:--RUNNING AWAY FROM THE DEFENSE--Packers quarterback Brett Favre looks to pass under pressure from Falcons linebacker John Thierry during 1st half action at Lambeau Field on Sunday, Sept. 8, 2002. (CURTIS COMPTON/staff)

Credit: Curtis Compton

icon to expand image

Credit: Curtis Compton

About the Author

Keep Reading

Falcons linebacker Deangelo Malone (right center) — pictured celebrating his game-clinching interception against the Bills on Oct. 13 — is headed to injured reserve with a broken ankle. (Colin Hubbard/AP)

Credit: AP

Featured

U.S. Rep. Mike Collins' Senate campaign used Sen. Jon Ossoff's Senate portrait (center) to create an AI-generated video of Ossoff talking about his vote not to end the government shutdown.  The video was reposted to Collins' campaign account on X (left). (Screenshot)

Credit: Screenshot