The 10 greatest New York Jets players ever represent a legacy of talent and determination, showcasing some of the finest athletes in NFL history. Despite facing challenges in their pursuit of Super Bowl victories, the Jets have consistently produced exceptional players who have left an indelible mark on the franchise.
Throughout its storied history, the Jets have celebrated the induction of 20 players into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. These inductees are just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of talent that has donned the green and white, with numerous other legendary figures contributing to the team’s legacy during shorter tenures.
Among these remarkable athletes, a select few have stood out as icons in Jets history. Let’s explore the 10 best players who have ever played for the New York Jets.
10. WR Wesley Walker (1977-1989)
Wesley Walker emerged as one of the premier wide receivers in the late 1970s and 1980s, overcoming the challenge of being legally blind in his left eye. His impressive career included two Pro Bowl selections and a standout second season where he led the NFL with 1,169 receiving yards. By the end of his tenure with the Jets, Walker ranked second in franchise history for receptions (438), receiving yards (8,306), and receiving touchdowns (71).
9. C Nick Mangold (2006-2016)
Nick Mangold was a cornerstone of the Jets’ offensive line, earning seven Pro Bowl selections from 2008 to 2015. His rookie season was particularly impressive, allowing only half a sack in 2006, which garnered him attention for the Offensive Rookie of the Year accolade. Mangold’s contributions were pivotal during the Jets’ back-to-back AFC Championship Game appearances in 2009 and 2010, providing essential protection for quarterback Mark Sanchez.
8. DE Mark Gastineau (1979-1988)
Mark Gastineau was a fearsome presence on the defensive line and a key member of the “New York Sack Exchange.” He recorded at least 19 sacks in three seasons during a four-year span from 1981 to 1984, including a record-setting 22 sacks in 1984. Gastineau was the first player to lead the NFL in sacks in consecutive seasons and was recognized as a Pro Bowler and All-Pro for five straight years from 1981 to 1985. Upon his abrupt retirement in 1988, he held the record for the most career sacks in NFL history with 107.5.
7. C Kevin Mawae (1998-2005)
Kevin Mawae, another exceptional center for the Jets, enjoyed a Hall of Fame career with the team, earning six Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors during his eight seasons. His durability was remarkable, as he played 177 consecutive games, providing crucial blocking for running back Curtis Martin, who also achieved Hall of Fame status.
6. CB Darrelle Revis (2007-2012, 2015-16)
Darrelle Revis is often regarded as one of the premier cornerbacks of the 21st century, spending the majority of his career with the Jets. He quickly established himself as an elite defensive player after being drafted in 2007. By his second season, he was selected to the Pro Bowl and finished as a runner-up for the Defensive Player of the Year in 2009. His performance that year is frequently cited as one of the best seasons ever for a cornerback, featuring six interceptions and limiting Hall of Fame receivers Andre Johnson and Randy Moss to under 40 receiving yards during their matchups. Revis played a significant role in the Jets’ AFC Championship Game appearances in both 2009 and 2010.
5. OT Winston Hill (1963-1976)
Winston Hill, who was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020, spent 14 of his 15 NFL seasons with the Jets. Renowned for his exceptional pass protection skills, Hill played a crucial role in allowing quarterback Joe Namath to achieve the milestone of being the first QB to pass for 4,000 yards in a season. Hill was instrumental in leading the Jets to back-to-back division titles in 1968 and 1969, starting at left tackle during both seasons. At retirement, he held the Jets’ record for starting 174 consecutive games.
4. WR Don Maynard (1963-1972)
3. DL Joe Klecko (1977-1988)
Joe Klecko is often overlooked in discussions about great defensive players, but he holds the unique distinction of being the only player in NFL history to be selected to the Pro Bowl at every position on the defensive line. A sixth-round draft pick, Klecko made an immediate impact, setting a rookie record with eight sacks in his first season. His standout year came in 1981 when he recorded an impressive 20.5 sacks, earning Pro Bowl and First-Team All-Pro honors while narrowly missing out on Defensive Player of the Year. Over his career, he made four Pro Bowl appearances and concluded his time with the Jets with 78 sacks.
2. RB Curtis Martin (1998-2005)
1. QB Joe Namath (1965-1977)
HONORABLE MENTIONS
- Al Toon
- Wayne Chrebet
- Freeman McNeil
- Gerry Philbin
- Larry Grantham
