Dewey McClain: Falcons Linebacker, Labor Leader, Lawmaker
Some men are remembered for what they achieve in one arena. Dewey McClain is remembered for three. From his hard-hitting days as a linebacker with the Atlanta Falcons, to his decades of service as a labor leader, and now as a respected lawmaker in the Georgia House of Representatives, McClain’s legacy is a testament to grit, service, and leadership.
Falcons Glory: The Grits Blitz Legacy
Undrafted in 1976 out of East Central State University, McClain earned his way onto the Falcons roster through determination and sacrifice. Early in his professional career, he started a handful of games, quickly proving that he belonged.
His true legacy came in 1977, when he became part of the Falcons’ legendary “Grits Blitz” defense. That year, Atlanta’s defense set the NFL record for the fewest points allowed in a season—just 129. The scheme was aggressive and innovative: in passing downs the Falcons shifted from a base 4-3 alignment into a 33 nickel, bringing in McClain as a combination rusher and blitzer opposite Greg Brezina.
Some stats to illustrate the dominance:
- In 1978, Atlanta totaled 47 sacks.
- The top three sackers that season were all linebackers: Brezina (9), McClain (7.5), and Robert Pennywell (6).
- McClain’s ability to disrupt both the run and the pass made him a crucial part of that defensive unit.
Leadership Off the Field: Labor & Community
After his football years (including time in the USFL), McClain turned his focus toward service. He took on leadership roles in the labor movement, most notably as President of the Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council AFL-CIO.
He has also been deeply involved in many civic, charitable, and community organizations. He believes public service is a continuation of the values he learned on the field: teamwork, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence for others.
Awards & Honors: Recognizing a Lifetime of Excellence
Dewey McClain’s work has not gone unnoticed. Over the years he has been honored many times, and these awards reflect all parts of his life—athletics, labor, lawmaking, and service:
- ECU Distinguished Alumni Award (2022) — East Central University honored him for the lasting impact he has made after his career on and off the field. Ecok
- Gwinnett County Rape Crisis Crystal Angel Award — For his service and support of victims and advocacy in the community. Georgia General Assembly+1
- Freedom Bowl Hall of Fame — Acknowledgment of his football success and contributions to alumni and sports excellence. Georgia General Assembly+2Dewey McClain+2
- Atlanta Tribune Magazine Hall of Fame — Celebrating his broader contributions in sports, labor, and public life. Georgia General Assembly+2Ecok+2
- Martin Luther King Jr. March Committee’s Rev. James Orange Award — Recognizing his civil rights, social justice, and community work. Georgia General Assembly+1
- GRPA Minority Section Professional of the Year and GRPA District 7 Professional of the Year — From the Georgia Recreation & Park Association, highlighting his contributions in parks, recreation, and community programs. Georgia General Assembly
- He is also a three-time recipient of the NFLPA Chapter of the Year Award. Ecok+1
- Jessie Jackson Sportsman of the Year (2011) — Honoring his athletic, civic, and personal examples. Ecok+1
These honors are more than trophies. They are proof that McClain has lived a life of purpose in every role he’s played.
Lawmaker for the People
Elected in 2013, Representative McClain serves Georgia House District 109 (Gwinnett County). He continues to carry forward the same intensity and values that made him a standout in football and labor leadership.
His priorities include:
- Improving education statewide
- Strengthening infrastructure and sustainable growth
- Securing living wage jobs
- Reducing foreclosures and protecting homeowners
- Fair and meaningful immigration legislation
- Working across the aisle to pass legislation that benefits all citizens
A Legacy in Motion
From the defensive line to the state capitol, Dewey McClain has never stopped moving forward. He has tackled change at every level—from sacking quarterbacks to raising standards for workers, from leading on policy to uplifting communities.
Falcons linebacker. Labor leader. Lawmaker. Award-recipient. Community pillar.
And through it all, he remains humble, grounded, and committed to making the world better than he found it.
