New York Jets: Top 5 quarterbacks in franchise history
By Nick Ziegler
Oct 20, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets fans celebrate a touchdown by New York Jets quarterback Geno Smith (not pictured) during the second half at MetLife Stadium. The Jets won the game 30-27 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
After Joe Namath’s career was coming to an end, the Jets used the sixth-pick in the 1976 NFL Draft on quarterback Richard Todd. After the Jets had a 1-7 record to start the season, and Namath’s career was clearly done, Richard Todd became the Jets’ starting quarterback in 1976.
Todd would go on to play eight seasons with the Jets and had a 42-51-1 record. Todd and the Jets made the playoffs two straight years in 1981 and 1982, but came up short both years. In the playoffs, Todd struggled with just four touchdowns to 12 interceptions.
In eight seasons with the Jets, Todd totaled 18,241 passing yards, 110 passing touchdowns, and 138 interceptions. Todd’s best season was in 1981, as he totaled 3,231 passing yards, 25 passing touchdowns, and 13 interceptions.
Todd wasn’t a great quarterback, but he did help lead the Jets to the playoffs twice, and replaced their most iconic player.
Next: Could've been Marino