The New York Jets, one of the most storied franchises in NFL history, have experienced their fair share of ups and downs. Despite a challenging run in recent Super Bowl appearances, the franchise boasts a rich legacy of legendary talent. Over the years, the Jets have seen 20 players enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, with countless others leaving their mark on the field.
Top 10 Famous Jets Players in New York Jets History
Let’s dive into the top 10 best jets players of all time who defined greatness for the New York Jets.
10. WR Wesley Walker (1977–1989)
Wesley Walker emerged as one of the NFL’s most formidable receivers during the late 1970s and 1980s, despite being legally blind in his left eye. A two-time Pro Bowler, Walker led the league in receiving yards in 1978 with 1,169 yards. He concluded his career ranking second in Jets history for receptions (438), receiving yards (8,306), and receiving touchdowns (71).
9. C Nick Mangold (2006–2016)
A cornerstone of the Jets’ offensive line, Nick Mangold earned seven Pro Bowl selections between 2008 and 2015. Renowned for his rookie season performance, where he allowed just half a sack, Mangold played a pivotal role in the Jets’ deep playoff runs in 2009 and 2010, protecting quarterback Mark Sanchez and facilitating an efficient ground game.
8. DE Mark Gastineau (1979–1988)
A dominant force on the defensive line, Mark Gastineau was the heart of the “New York Sack Exchange.” During the 1980s, Gastineau recorded at least 19 sacks in three out of four seasons, setting a then-record 22 sacks in 1984. He became the first player to lead the league in sacks for consecutive seasons and retired with 107.5 career sacks, the most in NFL history at the time.
7. C Kevin Mawae (1998–2005)
Kevin Mawae set the standard for durability and excellence on the Jets’ offensive line. Over eight seasons, he earned six Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors. Known for his reliability, Mawae played 177 consecutive games and was instrumental in Curtis Martin’s Hall of Fame career, providing the blocking necessary for Martin’s dominance.
6. CB Darrelle Revis (2007–2012, 2015–2016)
Nicknamed “Revis Island,” Darrelle Revis revolutionized the cornerback position. A five-time Pro Bowler with the Jets, Revis reached peak dominance in 2009, finishing second in Defensive Player of the Year voting. That season, he recorded six interceptions and neutralized some of the league’s best receivers, helping propel the Jets to consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances.
5. OT Winston Hill (1963–1976)
A cornerstone of the Jets’ offensive line, Winston Hill protected Joe Namath and was key to the team’s success during the late 1960s. He started 174 consecutive games, a franchise record at the time, and played a pivotal role in the Jets’ Super Bowl III victory. Hill’s contributions earned him a posthumous induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020.
4. WR Don Maynard (1963–1972)
The first player signed by the New York Titans (later the Jets), Don Maynard became a star receiver. His standout moment came in Super Bowl III, where he recorded six receptions for 118 yards and two touchdowns. A four-time Pro Bowler, Maynard retired with five seasons of 1,000+ receiving yards and remains one of the Jets’ all-time greats.
3. DL Joe Klecko (1977–1988)
Joe Klecko is the only player in NFL history to make the Pro Bowl at all three defensive line positions. Known for his relentless play, Klecko’s best season came in 1981 when he recorded 20.5 sacks, earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors. Over his career, Klecko tallied 78 sacks and became one of the Jets’ most versatile defensive players.
2. RB Curtis Martin (1998–2005)
Curtis Martin’s consistency and talent defined his time with the Jets. A five-time Pro Bowler, Martin amassed over 10,000 rushing yards with the Jets, including a career-high 1,697 yards in 2004 when he won the NFL rushing title. He recorded 1,000-yard seasons in each of his first 10 NFL years, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in league history.
1. QB Joe Namath (1965–1977)
Joe Namath, famously known as “Broadway Joe,” delivered the Jets their only Super Bowl title with a historic win in Super Bowl III. Namath became the first quarterback to throw for 4,000 yards in a season, a record that stood unchallenged for over a decade. A five-time Pro Bowler and 1968 AFL champion, Namath’s swagger and skill forever etched his name in Jets lore.
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Conclusion
These best jets players of all time not only shaped the history of the New York Jets but also left an indelible mark on the NFL. Their contributions, on and off the field, continue to inspire generations of fans and players alike.
