Atlanta Falcons Share Photo of Hacksaw Jim Duggan’s First Paycheck for the Team

The official X account for the Atlanta Falcons shared a photo from WWE Hall of Famer Hacksaw Jim Duggan, showing his first paycheck from the Falcon when he was signed to the team almost 50 years ago in 1977. The caption reads, “Hacksaw Jim Duggan still has his Atlanta Falcons paycheck from 1977.”

Duggan signed with the Falcons back in 1977 after his college career, where played football at Southern Methodist University. His football and NFL careers ultimately ended due to injuries before he made his transition to pro wrestling.

The check reveals a net pay to Duggan with $1,948.82. It also reads, “Speak well of the NFL; You are part of it!” 10 years later, Duggan would debut in WWE, becoming one of the company’s most popular stars.

Tough guy, @RealHacksawJim! 👀 pic.twitter.com/g4uivy3jmN

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) February 23, 2026