1966 Jets Offensive Line Profiles

JOHN SCHMITT
Center
No. 52
Hofstra
After two years as a backup for the now departed Mike Hudock, John becomes the regular center of the improving young Jet offensive line. Quarterback Namath can rely on John's superb pass blocking after the ball has been snapped.
He's a Brooklyn-born local boy who played his high school ball at Seton Hall Prep in South Orange, New Jersey. Yet another of the young men given a pro football opportunity by the American Football League, John was working as a clerk at JC Penney before being signed by the Jets as a free agent.


SAM DELUCA
Guard
No. 65
South Carolina
"Sam came out of retirement after spending the 1962 season in civvies. The veteran guard has played for the San Diego Chargers and was named to the 1963 All-Star Game.
Sam teaches English during the off-season."

-1966 Topps No. 91


DAVE HERMAN
Guard
No. 67
Michigan State
Always known for his ability to block on passing plays, Dave proved himself a strong pass protector for rookie quarterback Namath last year. Drafted as a 'future' by the Jets in 1963, he should be a vital part of the Jets' up-and-coming offensive line for years to come.
Dave has a B.S. in agriculture and economics.


SHERMAN PLUNKETT
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Maryland State
"Next to 317-pound Ernie Ladd of the Oilers, offensive tackle Sherman Plunkett is the largest man in professional football. Sherm weights 300 pounds when they persuade him to climb on the scales, and he stands 6-2. Weeb Ewbank occasionally gripes that he is getting too fat, but the coach rarely complains about the big fellow's pass blocking - it's exceptional. The Jets insist Sherm can run 40 yards in 5.2 seconds, which isn't bad for somebody that big.
He went to college at Maryland State, played for Ewbank's 1958-59 NFL champion Colts, and came to the Jets from San Diego in 1963."

-Jack Zanger, Pro Football 1966

"The consistent offensive tackle is one of the game's top pass protectors. Acquired by the Jets from the San Diego Chargers in 1963, Sherman has good speed for a man of his stature.
Sherman played in the 1965 AFL All-Star Game and played for Weeb Ewbank in the NFL."

-1966 Topps No. 99


WINSTON HILL
Offensive Tackle
No. 75
Texas Southern
"The offensive tackle was signed as a free agent by the Jets in 1963. Last year Winston missed the entire preseason schedule because of an injury and it wasn't until the second half of the season that he displayed true form.
Winston was a tennis champion in high school."

-1966 Topps No. 92