The Atlanta Falcons unveiled new helmets for the 2023 NFL season that feature a redesigned logo and matte black finish. The changes represent the first major helmet redesign for the Falcons since moving to their current uniform set in 2003. Here are the details on the Falcons’ new helmets for 2023:
New Matte Black Helmet Shell
The most noticeable change to the Falcons’ new helmets is the switch from a glossy black shell to a matte black finish. The matte black look gives the helmet a sleek, modern style and aligns with recent trends in helmet designs across the NFL. The Falcons join teams like the Eagles, Cardinals, and Patriots who have adopted matte finishes in recent years. The matte shell provides a distinct look and highlights the redesigned Falcons logo.
Redesigned Falcons Logo
In addition to the color change, the Falcons logo on the sides of the helmet has been resized and slightly altered. The iconic Falcons logo features a red and black falcon with its wings spread in attack position. The new logo increases the size of the falcon and uses straightened, sharper lines for a more modern and angular depiction. The Falcons elected to maintain their classic red and black colors but evolved the logo to match the new helmet styling.
No Striping or Additional Decals
Unlike many teams that add striping, decals or other designs to their helmets, the Falcons elected to go with a clean, minimalist look in their 2023 redesign. Outside of the Falcons logo, the new helmets do not feature any striping, team names, slogans or additional decals. This gives the helmet a very streamlined appearance that lets the matte shell and redesigned logo take center stage.
Return of Popular Throwback Helmet
In addition to the new matte black helmet, the Falcons also announced the return of their popular throwback red helmet for selected games. The throwback helmet features the throwback Falcons logo in white with black trim and a black facemask. Fans will get to see the throwback for at least one game in 2023 as the Falcons celebrate their past uniform designs.
Background on Falcons Helmet History
To better understand the significance of the Falcons’ new helmets, here is some background on the franchise’s helmet history:
1966-1969: White Helmet With Black Logo
The Falcons entered the NFL as an expansion team in 1966 wearing a plain white helmet with a black falcon logo on the sides. This was the franchise’s inaugural helmet style.
1970-2002: Red Helmet Era
In 1970, the Falcons switched to a red helmet with a graffiti-style Falcon logo. This iconic red helmet with minor logo modifications served as the hallmark look across three decades from the 1970s to the early 2000s.
2003-2022: Modern Black Helmet
In 2003, the Falcons debuted a major uniform redesign that included the adoption of the modern black helmet with red trim and silver facemask. This glossy black helmet with minor alterations was used up through the 2022 season.
2023: New Matte Black Helmet Unveiled
After nearly two decades with the black helmet look, the Falcons opted for a complete redesign in 2023 centered around the new matte black shell and reimagined logo. This marks the first major helmet change for the franchise since 2003.
Fan Reaction
Based on initial photos and videos of the new Falcons helmets, fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive:
- Fans have praised the sleek matte finish as both modern and intimidating.
- The resized, sharper Falcon logo has drawn comparisons to comic book superheroes with its aggressive stance.
- Supporters are excited by the return of the throwback red helmet for select games in 2023.
- Many have complimented the clean look that relies solely on the redesigned logo and avoids extra decals.
- Some fans have commented that the new look is long overdue after nearly 20 years with only minor changes.
Of course, alterations to any longstanding team identity will always receive some criticism. A minority of fans have expressed hesitancy about moving away from the glossy black shell that has represented the Falcons for the past two decades. However, early returns suggest the new matte black helmet and refreshed Falcons logo have been embraced by the vast majority of supporters.
On-Field Debut
While the initial reveal generated positive reviews, the true test for the Falcons’ new helmet look will come when the players take the field wearing them. Fans will get their first chance to see the new helmets in action during 2023 preseason games. The first opportunity comes on August 12 when the Falcons open preseason play against the Detroit Lions. From there, the matte black lids will become a staple of the Falcons’ identity as they kick off the 2023 regular season.
Conclusion
The Falcons’ helmet redesign for 2023 represents one of the most striking uniform changes in the NFL heading into the new season. switching to a matte black shell provides a sleek and modernized look that had fans buzzing during the initial reveal. Reimagining the iconic Falcons logo while maintaining the franchise’s signature red and black colors was also a clever balance of evolution and tradition. If the early fan response is any indication, the Falcons’ bold new helmets should be a hit on the field in 2023. The matte black finish and reshaped logo present a more imposing and athletic identity befitting the team’s “Rise Up” mantra.
