Defensive Coordinator
"Michaels returns to the Jets as defensive coordinator, the first position filled by new head coach Lou Holtz as a priority move. He masterminded the growth and development of Jet defenses from 1963 through 1972 before joining the Philadelphia Eagles in a similar capacity.
Michaels' Jet defenses became among the most respected in the old AFL and in the AFC. The 1968 defense led the AFL in rushing defense and in total defense, the 1969 defense was second in the AFL and in 1970, rose to first in the AFC.
He was a prominent figure in the Jets Super Bowl III victory over Baltimore even though Joe Namath, Matt Snell and the receivers received the publicity. The Jets defense checked the Colts throughout the game and held Baltimore scoreless until the final five minutes. The secondary that day, composed of four free agents, intercepted four passes and set the stage for what experts call the greatest upset in pro football history, 16-7.
Walt has had several players reach all-star or Pro Bowl status including Verlon Biggs, Larry Grantham, Al Atkinson, Bill Bradley and Bill Bergey. As a player, he was a four-time All-Pro linebacker with the Cleveland Browns from 1955-58. Walt played with the Browns from 1952-61, including two NFL championship games, and on five division champions. He began his pro career with Green Bay in 1951.
He coached the Oakland Raiders defensive line before joining the Jets staff as defensive line coach. In 1967, he coached the linebackers and secondary.
Born in Swoyersville, Pennsylvania, Walt holds a B.A. in psychology and education from Washington & Lee. His brother, Lou, was a standout tackle and place kicker in the NFL."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
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