The Best New York Jets of All Time
This is a list of the best New York Jets of all time. Originally called the Titans, the New York Jets took part in two of the AFL's biggest moments before the merger of the two leagues in 1970. First, the Jets were able to lure one of the best players in franchise history to them in 1965. Joe Namath is still considered one of the best Jets ever nearly 50 years after he took his first snaps as quarterback. Namath was part of one of the most memorable moments in Jets and NFL history when he guaranteed that the underdog Jets would defeat the heavily favored Baltimore Colts in Super Bowl III. After the Jets victory, though considered one of the worst teams to win a Super Bowl, Namath became known as Mr Jet and is considered one of the best Jets of all time.
Despite the team's continuous run of mediocrity (with a few playoff seasons sprinkled in over the years), the Jets have had a lot of talent on both sides of the ball. Curtis Martin, Darrelle Revis, Don Maynard and Mark Gastineau are all considered some of the best Jets ever. These players are either in the Pro Football Hall of Fame or are considered some of the best players at their positions. The Jets may only have one Super Bowl in its trophy case, but the top players in the team's history won a slew of individual honors to cement their status with in the NFL community.
This list of the best New York Jets of all time includes every player in the team's history. If there is a player missing from the list, please add him. Vote or rerank the list how you think the greatest Jets in history should be ranked.- 1Running back
Curtis Martin, a heart-and-soul player known for his determined, hard-nosed running style, epitomized dedication and consistency during his stellar career with the Jets. A true workhorse, Martin carried the load for the team's backfield, breaking tackles and chewing up yardage in seemingly effortless fashion. Not only did he leave an indelible mark on the record books, but he also exemplified the grit and fortitude that has come to define some of the greatest players in Jets' history.
- 2Cornerback
- 3Quarterback
In the annals of New York Jets lore, there is perhaps no bigger legend than "Broadway" Joe Namath, whose storied career captured the imagination of the country and forever linked him with the iconic Super Bowl III guarantee. Namath, known for his undeniable charisma and larger-than-life persona, was an electrifying presence on the gridiron, his rocket arm and fearlessness in the pocket making him a true force to be reckoned with. As the catalyst behind one of the most memorable moments in NFL history, Namath's legacy will forever be intertwined with the very fabric of the sport.
- 4
Joe Klecko
Defensive tackle, Lineman, Defensive endFew players exemplify the toughness and tenacity of the New York Jets quite like Joe Klecko, whose relentless motor and hard-hitting nature made him an absolute terror for opposing offenses. A true defensive stalwart, Klecko was a force to be reckoned with on the line of scrimmage, using his incredible strength and agility to wreak havoc in the backfield. His impact on the game not only cemented his place as one of the greatest Jets of all time but also laid the groundwork for what would become the vaunted "New York Sack Exchange."
- 5Wide receiver
As one of the NFL's original deep threats, Don Maynard was an unparalleled force on the field, capable of stretching defenses beyond their limits with his blazing speed and uncanny ability to make the big play. His legendary connection with Joe Namath forever enshrined them in Jets' history as one of the most dynamic quarterback-receiver tandems the league has ever seen. Maynard's fearless play and penchant for making the impossible catch solidified his standing as both a trailblazer and an icon in Jets lore.
- 6
Nick Mangold
CenterAt the very heart of the Jets' offensive line throughout his esteemed career, Nick Mangold was the epitome of consistency, durability, and unparalleled excellence. As the anchor of the O-line, Mangold's leadership and unwavering commitment to succeed helped pave the way for some of the team's most impressive offensive performances. His immense technical skill and extraordinary ability to read defenses quickly set him apart from his peers and cemented his status as one of the finest players ever to don a Jets uniform.
