Jets most hated: the top 20 villains in Gang Green history – Part 1 (20-11)
By Ed Stein
In 60 years of existence, Gang Green has developed some enemies. This is part one of the New York Jets top 20 villains (numbers 20-11).
The New York Jets have existed in one form or another since 1960. They played first at the Polo Grounds, followed by Shea Stadium, then came the Meadowlands, and finally to their current digs at MetLife Stadium. In 60 years of football, the Jets have either had on their team or faced the best players of their era.
Needless to say, NYJ fans have had their fair share of disappointment and heartbreak (and maybe more than their fair share). Under those circumstances, rivalries, as well as deep hatred, develop. Taking that one step further, all their built-up animosity gets taken out on the people and events that Jets fans feel are responsible for their misery.
And there is plenty of misery. Last December, ESPN put out its “Most Miserable Fan Bases” in the four major sports. New York Jets fans were third in the NFL and sixth among all professional sports teams.
The Jets have also had their heroes, such as Joe Namath, Joe Klecko, Curtis Martin, and Weeb Eubank. But there can’t be good without evil. It’s in that spirit we bring you the 20 biggest villains in New York Jets history. Some on the list are players. Others are coaches, or in management. There is also a broadcaster, an inanimate object, and an owner of a team from another sport.
Dishonorable Mention
Rich Kotite – Being the leader of the worst team in New York Jets history has to be worth including somewhere. In 1995 Kotite led them to a 3-13 record. It was almost impossible for Gang Green to do worse in his second season, but it did, to the tune of 1-15. A combined 4-28 put an end to Kotite’s NFL head coaching career.