Guard
Free Agent
Gardner-Webb
"Signed as a free agent, Bolick is an aggressive player with good speed to go with his size, but needs weight work and more strength in his upper body and legs. He played tackle but will be tried at guard.
Bob was a four-year letterman and team co-captain. He was twice all-district (NAIA), once all-conference and received NAIA All-America honors in 1975. He also participated in track.
He holds a B.S. degree in health and physical education. Bob will be married in June 1976 and his career plans include pro football, teaching and coaching. His brother Pete also plays at Gardner-Webb. He has the same hometown as the Jets' Darrell Austin: Union, South Carolina."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Thursday, April 28, 2016
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
1976 Free Agent Profile: Buck Baker
Offensive Tackle
Free Agent
Georgia
"Originally drafted 10th by the Jets in 1974, Baker joined Jacksonville of the WFL in 1974 and played for the Jacksonville Express in 1975, starting at right tackle. His playing weight (267) is up from 241 when drafted.
Baker is a durable player who never missed a game or practice session at Georgia. A good power blocker, according to scouts, he played for the SEC champions in 1968 before entering the Marines for a three-year hitch. He returned to Georgia as a starting guard in 1973.
Buck wrestled in the Marines and was Inter-Service Greco-Roman champ in 1971. He played in the 1969 Sugar and 1973 Peach Bowls for Georgia and in the 1974 All-American Bowl.
He's a corporal in the Marines and his hobby is motorcycles. His proper name is Sam A. Baker, Jr. His hometown is Jacksonville, Florida."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Free Agent
Georgia
"Originally drafted 10th by the Jets in 1974, Baker joined Jacksonville of the WFL in 1974 and played for the Jacksonville Express in 1975, starting at right tackle. His playing weight (267) is up from 241 when drafted.
Baker is a durable player who never missed a game or practice session at Georgia. A good power blocker, according to scouts, he played for the SEC champions in 1968 before entering the Marines for a three-year hitch. He returned to Georgia as a starting guard in 1973.
Buck wrestled in the Marines and was Inter-Service Greco-Roman champ in 1971. He played in the 1969 Sugar and 1973 Peach Bowls for Georgia and in the 1974 All-American Bowl.
He's a corporal in the Marines and his hobby is motorcycles. His proper name is Sam A. Baker, Jr. His hometown is Jacksonville, Florida."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Monday, April 18, 2016
1976 Rookie Profile: James Anderson
Running Back
Free Agent
Washington
"Anderson was signed as a free agent after recommendations by Jets scouts. A versatile player, lettering at quarterback (sophomore), wide receiver (junior) and running back (senior), he rushed for 441 yards on 124 carries with five touchdowns in 1975. Anderson caught nine passes for 109 yards during his junior year, followed by six catches for 63 yards in '75.
He was a business management major. James was named all-league and all-city as a quarterback at Edison High School in his hometown of Fresno, California."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Free Agent
Washington
"Anderson was signed as a free agent after recommendations by Jets scouts. A versatile player, lettering at quarterback (sophomore), wide receiver (junior) and running back (senior), he rushed for 441 yards on 124 carries with five touchdowns in 1975. Anderson caught nine passes for 109 yards during his junior year, followed by six catches for 63 yards in '75.
He was a business management major. James was named all-league and all-city as a quarterback at Edison High School in his hometown of Fresno, California."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Thursday, April 14, 2016
1976 Rookie Profile: Shafer Suggs
Cornerback
2nd Round
Ball State
"A basketball and football star at Ball State, he leaps 'to shake hands with God,' says one scout. The No. 2 draft pick, he could start from the opening game."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976
"Drafted second, Shafer's credentials include speed (4.5-4.6 in the 40), quick feet, good leaping ability and heavy hitting. Scouts like his polished style of play, and his athletic ability is unquestioned after starting three years in basketball and four in football. He was the first draft choice to sign a contract.
Suggs enjoyed solid performances in his 1975 postseason appearances, starting in the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl, and played in the 1976 College All-Star Game. He broke Terry Schmidt's (New Orleans Saints) interception record at Ball State with 14, including eight in 1974. He was named Mid-America Conference defensive player of the year (1975) and AP second-team All-America.
As a basketball player, Suggs averaged 10.7 points per game (719 points) and 7.9 rebounds (527). Coach Holtz rates him 'a super athlete and a winner' and his college coach, Dave McClain, compares him with Mike Sensibaugh and Jack Tatum who he coached at Ohio State. Shafer was the first Ball State player in 17 years to letter four times. At Elkhart Central High School in his hometown of Elkhart, Indiana, he was named all-state in football and basketball."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
2nd Round
Ball State
"A basketball and football star at Ball State, he leaps 'to shake hands with God,' says one scout. The No. 2 draft pick, he could start from the opening game."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976
"Drafted second, Shafer's credentials include speed (4.5-4.6 in the 40), quick feet, good leaping ability and heavy hitting. Scouts like his polished style of play, and his athletic ability is unquestioned after starting three years in basketball and four in football. He was the first draft choice to sign a contract.
Suggs enjoyed solid performances in his 1975 postseason appearances, starting in the East-West Shrine Game and the Senior Bowl, and played in the 1976 College All-Star Game. He broke Terry Schmidt's (New Orleans Saints) interception record at Ball State with 14, including eight in 1974. He was named Mid-America Conference defensive player of the year (1975) and AP second-team All-America.
As a basketball player, Suggs averaged 10.7 points per game (719 points) and 7.9 rebounds (527). Coach Holtz rates him 'a super athlete and a winner' and his college coach, Dave McClain, compares him with Mike Sensibaugh and Jack Tatum who he coached at Ohio State. Shafer was the first Ball State player in 17 years to letter four times. At Elkhart Central High School in his hometown of Elkhart, Indiana, he was named all-state in football and basketball."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Monday, April 11, 2016
1976 Rookie Profile: Richard Todd
Quarterback
1st Round
Alabama
"The team's No. 1 draft choice, he has pro size- 6-2 and 210. In [the College] All-Star game he threw for more than 300 yards, a reply to critics who said his passing was rusty after playing so long out of the Alabama wishbone."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976
"A No. 1 draft choice and the Jets' second top draft pick at quarterback out of Alabama. Richard is called a gifted athlete by scouts and coaches, and Director of Scouting Mike Holovak pinpoints 'good size, release and arm' and calls him 'the top rated quarterback in the draft with the special extra called competitive spirit.'
Richard completed his Alabama career with 1,254 yards rushing on 304 carries for 16 touchdowns, and completed 101 of 189 passes for 1,642 yards and 16 touchdowns. He was named All-SEC by both AP and UPI, MVP in the 1975 Sugar Bowl and MVP by a vote of teammates. Richard played in the '76 College All-Star Game and was the starting quarterback and offensive captain for the South in the Senior Bowl where he passed for 332 yards and two touchdowns and was named MVP.
With 4.7 speed in the 40, scouts say he 'is built in the true quarterback mold' and like his strong arm, size and ability to scramble as well as his calmness under pressure. Because of the wishbone offense, Richard's passing touch will be a major area of improvement.
Richard majored in physical education. During his high school career, he compiled 3,700 yards passing, completing 200 of 350 for 38 touchdowns while running for 24 touchdowns. His greatest thrill is playing for Bear Bryant. He idolizes Joe Namath but classifies himself as 'just plain Richard.'
His hobbies include skiing and fishing. His hometown in Mobile, Alabama."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
1st Round
Alabama
"The team's No. 1 draft choice, he has pro size- 6-2 and 210. In [the College] All-Star game he threw for more than 300 yards, a reply to critics who said his passing was rusty after playing so long out of the Alabama wishbone."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1976
"A No. 1 draft choice and the Jets' second top draft pick at quarterback out of Alabama. Richard is called a gifted athlete by scouts and coaches, and Director of Scouting Mike Holovak pinpoints 'good size, release and arm' and calls him 'the top rated quarterback in the draft with the special extra called competitive spirit.'
Richard completed his Alabama career with 1,254 yards rushing on 304 carries for 16 touchdowns, and completed 101 of 189 passes for 1,642 yards and 16 touchdowns. He was named All-SEC by both AP and UPI, MVP in the 1975 Sugar Bowl and MVP by a vote of teammates. Richard played in the '76 College All-Star Game and was the starting quarterback and offensive captain for the South in the Senior Bowl where he passed for 332 yards and two touchdowns and was named MVP.
With 4.7 speed in the 40, scouts say he 'is built in the true quarterback mold' and like his strong arm, size and ability to scramble as well as his calmness under pressure. Because of the wishbone offense, Richard's passing touch will be a major area of improvement.
Richard majored in physical education. During his high school career, he compiled 3,700 yards passing, completing 200 of 350 for 38 touchdowns while running for 24 touchdowns. His greatest thrill is playing for Bear Bryant. He idolizes Joe Namath but classifies himself as 'just plain Richard.'
His hobbies include skiing and fishing. His hometown in Mobile, Alabama."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Monday, April 4, 2016
1976 Profile: Roscoe Word
Cornerback-Punt Returner
No. 47
Jackson State
"Roscoe had a curious year in 1975. He started at right cornerback in the preseason and through the first nine regular season games before being benched against Miami. Roscoe returned as a starter against St. Louis and subbed in all the remaining games.
He wound up with one interception (against New England). Roscoe suffered a right hip injury in the preseason game against the Giants but recovered to keep his position, and twisted his ankle in practice before the St. Louis game but started.
In 1974, he burst onto the Jets defensive secondary scene as a capable and popular player. Drafted originally because of his kick returning ability, Roscoe's play at corner earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie team. He started at right corner in the fourth game and finished the season with two interceptions, both at crucial times. His last minute grab at New England saved a victory, and a week later Roscoe produced an almost instant replay to stop the final Miami drive to preserve a Jet win.
Roscoe made a habit of asking opposing players what mistakes he was making or how they tried to victimize him; he picked up many solid tips and improved himself. He has the brash attitude needed to play in the defensive backfield.
He was the Jets' leading punt returner in 1974, running back 38 for 301 yards, a 7.9 average. The total of 38 is a Jet record and the 301 yards places him second in the record book. He returned one kickoff for 22 yards in 1975 and did not handle a punt.
Despite his size, Roscoe supports [rushing defense] well and makes the hit. His good speed (4.5) enables him to execute all coverage assignments. He was drafted third in 1974.
The NCAA Division II leader in punt and kickoff returns, Roscoe averaged 36.1 on kickoff returns as a senior (18-for-650). His career stats: 77-for-1,980, 25.7 on kickoff returns and 35-for-564, 16.1 on punt returns. He was All-SWAC and voted outstanding defensive player for the South in the Senior Bowl.
He holds a B.S. in biology after majoring in pre-veterinary medicine. His wife is the sister of Don 'Slick' Watts of the Seattle Supersonics. Roscoe works in public relations for Capital City Beverages and has done TV commercials. His goal is to become a successful businessman. Roscoe's hometown is Pine Bluff, Arkansas."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 47
Jackson State
"Roscoe had a curious year in 1975. He started at right cornerback in the preseason and through the first nine regular season games before being benched against Miami. Roscoe returned as a starter against St. Louis and subbed in all the remaining games.
He wound up with one interception (against New England). Roscoe suffered a right hip injury in the preseason game against the Giants but recovered to keep his position, and twisted his ankle in practice before the St. Louis game but started.
In 1974, he burst onto the Jets defensive secondary scene as a capable and popular player. Drafted originally because of his kick returning ability, Roscoe's play at corner earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie team. He started at right corner in the fourth game and finished the season with two interceptions, both at crucial times. His last minute grab at New England saved a victory, and a week later Roscoe produced an almost instant replay to stop the final Miami drive to preserve a Jet win.
Roscoe made a habit of asking opposing players what mistakes he was making or how they tried to victimize him; he picked up many solid tips and improved himself. He has the brash attitude needed to play in the defensive backfield.
He was the Jets' leading punt returner in 1974, running back 38 for 301 yards, a 7.9 average. The total of 38 is a Jet record and the 301 yards places him second in the record book. He returned one kickoff for 22 yards in 1975 and did not handle a punt.
Despite his size, Roscoe supports [rushing defense] well and makes the hit. His good speed (4.5) enables him to execute all coverage assignments. He was drafted third in 1974.
The NCAA Division II leader in punt and kickoff returns, Roscoe averaged 36.1 on kickoff returns as a senior (18-for-650). His career stats: 77-for-1,980, 25.7 on kickoff returns and 35-for-564, 16.1 on punt returns. He was All-SWAC and voted outstanding defensive player for the South in the Senior Bowl.
He holds a B.S. in biology after majoring in pre-veterinary medicine. His wife is the sister of Don 'Slick' Watts of the Seattle Supersonics. Roscoe works in public relations for Capital City Beverages and has done TV commercials. His goal is to become a successful businessman. Roscoe's hometown is Pine Bluff, Arkansas."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
Friday, April 1, 2016
1976 Profile: Robert Woods
Offensive Tackle
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Robert has been a regular at left tackle for three years and has started 38 straight games. A painful broken rib against the Redskins in the preseason did not hamper his continual improvement. He enjoyed a solid 1975 season, his 'best since coming with Jets' according the coaching staff.
He comes off the ball quickly for a man his size and is a strong, reliable one-on-one blocker. Pass protection is his biggest area of improvement. Woods could play guard if necessary because of his speed, quickness and ability to pull to the outside.
Drafted No. 2 in 1973, he started 10 games as a rookie. His durability will make him an asset for many years.
Woods is a Senior Bowl product where he was coached by the Jets staff. He made AP Little All-America and played in the College All-Star Game.
A student teacher in the off-season, he's the brother of former Jets defensive tackle Larry Woods, now playing for the Seattle Seahawks. Robert played on three championship teams at Tennessee State. His hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Robert has been a regular at left tackle for three years and has started 38 straight games. A painful broken rib against the Redskins in the preseason did not hamper his continual improvement. He enjoyed a solid 1975 season, his 'best since coming with Jets' according the coaching staff.
He comes off the ball quickly for a man his size and is a strong, reliable one-on-one blocker. Pass protection is his biggest area of improvement. Woods could play guard if necessary because of his speed, quickness and ability to pull to the outside.
Drafted No. 2 in 1973, he started 10 games as a rookie. His durability will make him an asset for many years.
Woods is a Senior Bowl product where he was coached by the Jets staff. He made AP Little All-America and played in the College All-Star Game.
A student teacher in the off-season, he's the brother of former Jets defensive tackle Larry Woods, now playing for the Seattle Seahawks. Robert played on three championship teams at Tennessee State. His hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
1976 Profile: Al Woodall
Quarterback
No. 18
Duke
"Last year was the most disappointing season of his career because Woodall suffered a posterior capsule injury of his left knee in a preseason game against the Falcons. Placed on the injured reserve list on September 3, he suffered personal sorrow at the same time with the death of his father.
Woodall is a veteran backup quarterback with a strong, quick arm and good football intelligence, with excellent size for a pro football quarterback. He had minor league football experience with the Richmond Roadrunners of the ACFL (1968) after leaving Duke and was drafted No. 2 in 1969.
He has been forced into action several times in his career when Joe Namath was injured suddenly and has responded well. Al worked only three games in 1974, throwing eight passes while doing mop up work against New England, San Diego and Baltimore, but started six games in 1973 when Namath suffered shoulder injury. Al was also felled in '73, with knee problems, yet still threw nine touchdown passes to give him 18 in his career.
He started his most games in 1970, when Namath broke his wrist, and engineered victories over the Rams and Vikings. Woodall had a disappointing year in 1971, and was on the taxi squad for all but one game in 1972.
Woodall played two years at Duke. He was injured as sophomore but rebounded to complete 52.7 percent of his passes for 1,019 yards.
He has worked for an anti-narcotics program and done art show promotions. Al makes his off-season home in New York City. His hometown is Erwin, North Carolina."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 18
Duke
"Last year was the most disappointing season of his career because Woodall suffered a posterior capsule injury of his left knee in a preseason game against the Falcons. Placed on the injured reserve list on September 3, he suffered personal sorrow at the same time with the death of his father.
Woodall is a veteran backup quarterback with a strong, quick arm and good football intelligence, with excellent size for a pro football quarterback. He had minor league football experience with the Richmond Roadrunners of the ACFL (1968) after leaving Duke and was drafted No. 2 in 1969.
He has been forced into action several times in his career when Joe Namath was injured suddenly and has responded well. Al worked only three games in 1974, throwing eight passes while doing mop up work against New England, San Diego and Baltimore, but started six games in 1973 when Namath suffered shoulder injury. Al was also felled in '73, with knee problems, yet still threw nine touchdown passes to give him 18 in his career.
He started his most games in 1970, when Namath broke his wrist, and engineered victories over the Rams and Vikings. Woodall had a disappointing year in 1971, and was on the taxi squad for all but one game in 1972.
Woodall played two years at Duke. He was injured as sophomore but rebounded to complete 52.7 percent of his passes for 1,019 yards.
He has worked for an anti-narcotics program and done art show promotions. Al makes his off-season home in New York City. His hometown is Erwin, North Carolina."
-1976 New York Jets Media Guide
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