Throughout his time with the Falcons, Humphrey became known for his ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays. His agility and strength allowed him to excel in a role that demanded both physical prowess and strategic thinking. Over the years, he consistently ranked among the league leaders in sacks, although official sack statistics were not recorded until later in his career. Despite this, his reputation as a sack specialist was well recognized by his peers and opponents alike.
Humphrey's career with the Falcons was marked by multiple Pro Bowl selections, highlighting his status as one of the top defensive players in the league. His performance on the field was instrumental in helping the Falcons achieve their first-ever playoff appearance in 1978. However, his journey with the team was not without challenges. Injuries plagued him during certain seasons, but he demonstrated an ability to return to form and continue contributing at a high level.
In 1979, Humphrey made the decision to retire from professional football, citing dissatisfaction with the direction of the Falcons organization. However, his retirement was short-lived. In 1980, he returned to the NFL, this time as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles. His addition to the Eagles' roster bolstered their defense, and he played a crucial role in helping the team reach Super Bowl XV. Although the Eagles did not secure a victory in the championship game, Humphrey's performance throughout the season was a testament to his enduring talent and experience.
After two seasons with the Eagles, Humphrey retired for the final time in 1981. Over the course of his career, he was selected to six Pro Bowls and was named an All-Pro five times. His legacy as a dominant defensive end was cemented with his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2014, an honor that recognized his outstanding contributions to the sport.
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