BOB DAVIS
Quarterback-Holder
No. 15
Virginia
"Davis took over the starting role for the Jets in the fifth game, the first time he had started since 1969 when he was at Houston. He brought the Jets' offense to life in that game against Buffalo and led the way to a 28-17 victory in the home opener. Bob started seven games for the Jets until he was kayoed with an ankle injury in the second quarter of the San Francisco game when Joe Namath made his return.
An active quarterback who can throw long, Davis opened up the offense, which had faltered in the early going. He threw 10 touchdown passes, two each against Buffalo (twice), Miami and San Diego. Bob connected on a 33-yard toss to Don Maynard at Buffalo to help the Jets to a win. He also showed his skill in leading a conservative game plan, throwing only nine times in the victory over Kansas City. A fearless runner, his 154 yards on the ground were the most ever by a Jet quarterback. He also worked as the holder for Bobby Howfield's place kicks.
Davis played in only one game for the Jets in 1970, his first with the club. He came in against Pittsburgh and hit on six of 17 while driving the team to a touchdown. He had been on the Jets' taxi squad prior to that, playing with the Jersey Jays of the ACFL.
Bob was the No. 2 draft choice of the Oilers in 1967 and spent three years there as a reserve quarterback. He went to camp in 1970 with the Giants and Bengals before becoming a free agent and was picked up by the Jets in the fall of 1970. He faced the Jets for three quarters in 1969, hitting on 20 of 35.
An all-state high schooler at Neptune (New Jersey) High, Davis lettered in football, baseball and basketball. He works in the off-season in personal and pension financial planning in Oakhurst, New Jersey, and makes his home in Wayside, New Jersey. His hometown is Neptune, New Jersey."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
AL WOODALL
Quarterback
No. 18
Duke
"Woodall had a disappointing season in 1971 after being the Jets' starting quarterback for the final nine games of the '70 campaign. He was slowed by a broken left wrist in the preseason game against Kansas City. He started the first four games of the year, but had a rough time and gave way to Bob Davis.
His best game was his direction of a 14-10 upset victory over Miami in the Orange Bowl. Woodall took the team on scoring drives twice in the fourth quarter to post the victory. He won a game ball for his efforts.
In 1970, he led the team in passing, maturing gradually as the season progressed. Woodall's best showing was an upset of Los Angeles: he hit on 10 of 17 passes for 261 yards and three touchdowns in that game and called on an excellent repertoire of plays to be in full command all the way. Two weeks later Al pitched a touchdown pass against the Vikings and controlled the game in a 20-10 victory. It was the second time he had excelled against the Purple Gang; he had preserved a preseason victory in 1969 by controlling the ball for nine minutes in the third quarter.
Al spent the 1968 season with the Richmond Roadrunners of the ACFL and led the league in passing. He was drafted No. 2 in 1969.
Woodall is a private E-2 in the National Guard. He has worked for an anti-narcotics program in Gastonia, North Carolina and also in an art show promotion firm, Woodall-Williams Island Exhibits. His hometown is Erwin, North Carolina."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
MATT SNELL
Fullback
No. 41
Ohio State
"This All-Pro running back endured the most frustrating season a pro athlete could have in 1971. Injured in the preseason, Snell did not carry the ball from scrimmage at all and was active for only five games. To compound his frustration, Snell made a fine recovery from the Achilles tendon rupture which put him out of the 1970 campaign after only three games. His training camp rehabilitation was moving rapidly when he was struck above the right knee in the preseason game with Kansas City by Willie Lanier and Cesar Belser. Diagnosed as a severe bruise, the injury did not heal quickly and Snell spent nine games on the move list. While he was active, Snell was used mainly on the special teams, notably on the kickoff unit, and was a blocking back on a few downs.
The medical word on him now is that he will be healthy for '72. Snell was off to his greatest start ever in 1970, with 281 yards in three games, when he was spun out of bounds at Buffalo and injured the Achilles. He had similarly been off to a good start in 1967 when he tore in his knee, also against Buffalo.
Snell has led the Jets in rushing five of his eight years. He was combined All-Pro by the writers and All-AFL following the '69 season and was voted second-team All-Pro by the league's coaches. Matt has rushed for 4,285 yards and 24 touchdowns in his career, and also ranks fifth in all-time Jet receiving with 193 for 1,379 yards. He holds the Jet record for single-season rushing- 948 in 1964- and for single-game rushing- 180 vs. Houston the same year.
Joe Namath's nomination for Super Bowl MVP, Snell is called the 'complete ballplayer' by Weeb Ewbank, who also says Snell is 'the best pass protector in football.'
Snell finished among the top 10 rushers in the AFL five times and the top ten receivers three times. The AFL Rookie of the Year in 1964, he was the No. 1 draft choice of the Jets and No. 3 of the Giants in '64.
He makes his year-round home in New Rochelle and is a partner in DEFCO Securities, Inc. in New York. He owns a restaurant in New York City, Matt Snell's Fifth Down. Snell was honored for his anti-drug work by being invited to the White House to meet with President Nixon.
He was an all-Met performer at Carle Place High on Long Island. His hometown is Locust Valley, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
EMERSON BOOZER
Halfback
No. 32
Maryland State
"In his four-year college career at Maryland State, Emerson carried 374 times for 2,537 yards and 22 touchdowns for a 6.6 average. He was named AFL Rookie of the Year for 1966 by the Pittsburgh Courier after having a great year in New York.
Emerson was born on the Fourth of July."
-1972 Topps No. 322
"Boozer had his finest year rushing in 1971, rolling up 618 yards, second only to John Riggins. Boozer was also the most active he has ever been, with 188 carries, and scored five touchdowns. He has had two outstanding seasons back-to-back working with different personnel as injuries have twice felled Matt Snell. For the second year in a row he finished 12th among AFC runners. As a receiver, Boozer caught 11 for 120 and had a touchdown grab against Miami at Shea.
He had his third-best day ever in the home opener vs. Buffalo, rushing for 116 yards on 31 carries. He also had days of 72 yards (vs. Miami) and 77 yards (vs. New England) enroute to his personal high. Emerson bruised a kneecap late in the victory over Kansas City and had an off week against Baltimore the next time out. He came back strong at Buffalo with 61 yards as he and Riggins led a ground attack that whipped the Bills 20-7. Emerson was the recipient of Namath's first pass when he returned against San Francisco, a 28-yarder.
He avoided the serious injuries which plagued him in 1970. That year he missed four games with bruised rib cartilage. Despite that, 1970 was a banner year for 'Bobo' as he ran for 581 yards and had three of his top rushing days ever. He had back-to-back 100-yard days against Oakland and Miami.
Emerson has always been known as an outstanding blocker for his backfield teammates and is superb at picking up the blitz. He handles linebackers with ease.
His sophomore year (1967) was a brilliant one and he was on his way to breaking pro records for scoring when he suffered torn knee ligaments in the ninth game vs. Kansas City. The 13 touchdowns he had scored at that time was only six shy of the AFL record. His knee strengthened through '68 and '69 and the last two years he has shown his leg was fully recovered. He drew Super Bowl praise for his blocking as he led the way for Snell who gained 121 yards.
Boozer ranks as the club's third-leading rusher of all time and fourth-leading scorer with 228 points. His bouncy, high-kneed style of running comes from his high school coach. Drafted sixth by the Jets in 1966, he was named AFL Rookie of the Year by the Pittsburgh Courier in '66.
Born on the Fourth of July, Boozer does excellent work on the banquet circuit and has worked for the Census Bureau during the off-season. He has a radio program on WLIB and aspires to become a broadcaster.
Emerson makes his year-round home in Huntington Station, New York. His hometown is August, Georgia."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
CLIFF MCCLAIN
Running Back
No. 42
South Carolina State
"A valuable backup runner, who Weeb Ewbank thinks has a world of potential, McClain was active for 11 games last year, carrying 12 times for 108 yards and two touchdowns. He scored a touchdown from the full-house backfield alignment against Buffalo and then scampered 63 yards for a touchdown against Cincinnati. That run was the longest for a touchdown in Jet history and the second longest run from scrimmage overall. McClain also recovered a blocked punt against San Francisco that lead to a fourth-quarter touchdown.
Drafted fifth in 1970, Cliff served on special teams. He had rib cartilage damage in the '70 preseason.
Cliff majored in physical education in college and competed in track. He ran the 100 in 9.7 and the 440 relay and threw the javelin. His hometown is Orlando, Florida."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
GEORGE NOCK
Running Back
No. 37
Morgan State
"George's finest game in pro football occurred against the Vikings at Shea Stadium in 1970. He set an all-time club record for carries in a game with 32 and rolled up 117 yards in the process.
He has a fine running style, he gives a great second effort and makes his own holes.
George enjoys sketching and sculpturing in his spare time."
-1972 Topps No. 212
STEVE HARKEY
Running Back
No. 36
Georgia Tech
"Used as a backup fullback and halfback throughout the season, Harkey is a good blocker and adept at picking up the blitz. He threw key blocks on both touchdown runs by George Knock in the 14-10 victory over Miami. Harkey had his best day against Dallas, carrying nine times for 31 yards. He finished up the year with 20 rushes for 62 yards, and also caught five passes for 28 yards. He scored a touchdown against New England in the preseason.
A 16th round draft choice in 1971, Steve is a good power runner with good hands.
Steve captained both his football and baseball teams in high school. He majored in general management and did coaching work at Tech during the off-season. He enjoys modern poetry. His hometown is Atlanta, Georgia."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
ED BELL
Wide Receiver
No. 7
Idaho State
"The smallest Jet ever, Bell was used as a backup wide receiver for the past two seasons, working primarily on the left side behind George Sauer in 1970 and Richard Caster last year. He caught five passes for 110 yards and a touchdown last year and scored on a 22-yard toss from Joe Namath in the San Francisco game.
Ed burst onto the New York scene against Baltimore in his rookie year when he caught 12 passes to tie the Jets' single-game mark. He was the second-leading receiver during the 1971 preseason with 10 for 276 yards and three touchdowns.
He has great speed and hands. Drafted ninth in 1970, he majored in speech pathology and audiology and wants to go into the field of helping the deaf and speech handicapped.
Bell rates his 77-yard touchdown catch against Idaho his top thrill in athletics as it enabled State to beat its top rival for the first time. He also competed in track and was the Big Sky Conference champ in the 220 in 1968. His hometown is Waco, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
VERN STUDDARD
Wide Receiver-Kick Returner
No. 22
Mississippi
"Studdard saw action in eight games primarily as a kick returner and as a backup wide receiver. He had the best average returning kickoffs on the team with a 21.9 mark on 15 runbacks for 329 yards. Vern also handled four punts. His long kickoff returns were 32 and 29 yards for the year. He suffered a severe concussion and lacerated tongue against Dallas but recovered to play two weeks later against Cincinnati.
Studdard is a daring and speedy returner. In his first pro game, the rookie game against the Bridgeport Jets, he hauled in a punt and ran it back 54 yards for a touchdown. He was drafted 11th in 1971.
His brother, Larry is a wide receiver at Georgia Tech. Vern worked as vice-president and advertising director of Hassocks, Inc., a furniture manufacturer, during the off-season. His hometown is Columbus, Mississippi."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
WAYNE STEWART
Tight End
No. 89
California
"Wayne was active for only the final three games of the year after suffering cracked ribs and a punctured lung in the preseason clash with Oakland. He was placed on the taxi squad and worked on special teams when he did return to action.
He was a backup tight end in 1970 until he underwent surgery for ligament and cartilage damage in his right knee. Wayne fell in practice, tearing up the knee. Drafted 15th in 1969, he's a reckless hitter on bomb squads.
Wayne's hometown is Downey, California. He's in the National Guard."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
GARY ARTHUR
Tight End
No. 82
Miami (Ohio)
"A backup tight end, Arthur has improved considerably since joining the team in 1970. He played nearly the entire game in the victory over Miami when Lammons was nursing a bruised shoulder. He saw action in the final seven games of 1970 and was active throughout last year.
Arthur is used as a tight end in short-yardage situations. He is one of the Jets' best on special teams, consistently among the first men down under the ball. He works hard to improve himself, spending hours in the 'net' drill to improve his hands.
Drafted in the fifth round in 1970, Arthur majored in finance at Miami. His hometown is Dayton, Ohio, and he played on the state championship basketball team at Dayton Chaminade."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
DAVE HERMAN
Guard
No. 67
Michigan State
"One of the finest offensive guards in pro football, Dave is a top blocker for the quarterback and does a superb job of opening up holes in defensive front walls. He enjoyed a particularly outstanding game against Merlin Olsen of the Rams in 1970 and rates his playing against Olsen as one of his biggest thrills in pro football.
Dave was a future selection of the Jets and the Giants in 1963. He majored in agriculture at Michigan State."
-1972 Topps No. 182
"Herman was a future draft choice from Michigan State for both the Jets and the Giants in 1963, being selected in the 27th round by the Jets. He won a starting guard spot in 1965. He is a top pass blocker.
In 1968 Herman moved from guard to tackle for the A.F.L. championship and the Super Bowl."
-1972 Coca-Cola
"First rate as a pass blocker, Herman came on towards the end of the year with his best football. He did a great job against Charlie Krueger of the 49ers, completely stopping him. He played his best against the better defensive tackles: he did outstanding jobs against Manny Fernandez (Miami) and Mike Reid (Cincinnati).
Herman has been a bulwark of the Jets' offensive line protecting Joe Namath since becoming a starter in 1965. In 1970 he teamed up well with rookie Dave Foley to bolster the right side of the line. He rates playing against the Rams' Merlin Olsen as one of his biggest thrills in athletics. Dave handled him well as the Jets beat Los Angeles in 1970. In 1968 he helped the club with his important move from right guard to tackle to play against Ike Lassiter and Bubba Smith in the AFL title game and the Super Bowl. He played in 66 straight games until an injury forced him out of two in '69.
Drafted as a future by both the Jets and Giants in 1963, Dave was taken in the 27th round. He's in great demand on the banquet circuit and works for John Blair & Co. in radio sports programming.
He makes his home in Valhalla, New York and his hometown is Edon, Ohio."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
RANDY RASMUSSEN
Guard
No. 66
Kearney State
"Rasmussen had a steady year at the left guard slot and managed to avoid the ankle trouble which had cut his effectiveness in 1970. He's a strong one-on-one blocker and one of the best pulling guards the Jets have ever had. He played two fine games against Buffalo. Randy has quick feet for a man his size and is a fine pass protector, according to line coach Wimp Hewgley.
He was the only rookie in the Jets' starting offensive lineup five years ago and then split time with Bob Talamini as the Jets went to the Super Bowl. Drafted by the Jets in 1967, Randy has a great attitude and is very coachable.
He grew up on a farm and likes to hunt, play golf and play tennis. He majored in mathematics and works as a broker for Smithers. He's also involved in an anti-drug program in Oyster Bay.
Randy makes his off-season home in New York and his hometown is Elba, Nebraska."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
JOHN MOORING
Guard
No. 71
Tampa
"Mooring has a great future as an offensive lineman according to Jet coaches. He's looked for to challenge for a starting post at guard this year. He played at right guard against New England and Miami last year for Dave Herman, and also was used as an extra lineman on goal-line defenses. He blocked a punt against Dallas to set up a field goal.
Line coach Wimp Hewgley says he 'has the makings of a good offensive lineman.' Mooring hits with impact and knocks people down, and has great range.
A second-round draft choice of the Jets in 1971, John was on the track team in high school in Falfurrias, Texas. He majored in physical education and did summer work as a signal man for the Missouri-Pacific Railroad.
Mooring makes his home in San Antonio, Texas and his hometown is Falfurrias, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
ROY KIRKSEY
Guard
No. 63
Maryland State
"Kirksey was on his way to challenging for a starting guard spot last training camp when torn ligaments in his right ankle sidelined him in the second preseason game. He was not active again until the Buffalo home opener and played in four games. Roy also saw some backup action along the defensive line in goal-line situations and on special teams. He is a strong, quick lineman who can explode off the line.
Kirksey played three years for Bridgeport of the ACFL, two years there as a fullback and one as a guard. He carried 198 times for 902 yards and 12 touchdowns and caught 30 passes for 384 yards and two touchdowns. He was drafted eighth in 1971.
Roy's biggest thrill in athletics was being named to the All-ACFL team at Bridgeport. He enjoys hunting and fishing. His hometown is Greenville, South Carolina."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
BOB SVIHUS
Offensive Tackle
No. 76
USC
"Svihus was acquired by the Jets from Oakland for a No. 2 draft choice during training camp and moved right in as the starting left tackle, helping to solve the Jets' offensive line problems of the past few seasons. He was graded the top offensive lineman on the club and termed a 'worthy addition to the team' by Jets line coach Wimp Hewgley. A good, smart tackle, Bob pairs with Winston Hill to give the Green one of the best tackle combinations in football. It took him a while to adjust to a new system of signals, but he came on strong after learning them.
Svihus had been a top performer for Oakland and started from '65-'70. He's missed only one game in his seven years to date. The Raiders' No. 3 pick in 1965, he recovered a fumble in 1969.
Svihus engaged in football, wrestling, swimming and water polo at Sequoia High. He worked with Oakland's Ben Davidson in the lounge business in the off-season. His hometown is Redwood City, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
DAVE FOLEY
Offensive Tackle
No. 70
Ohio State
"A great utility man along the offensive line, Foley does well at either tackle or center when called upon. He has come off two knee operations to show steady improvement. He has good explosion off the line.
Foley was a regular at right tackle in 1970 after sitting out '69 with a knee ligament damage incurred in the opening game in Buffalo. He had further surgery in 1970 to remove the staple in his right knee. Dave became a starter after the third game that year when Roger Finnie injured his ankle. He became stronger as 1970 progressed, solving the problem of his leg tiring late in games. He did an outstanding job against Deacon Jones (then of the Rams) and Dave Cash as the Jets upset Los Angeles, and also excelled against the Vikings' Carl Eller.
Drafted No. 1 in 1969, Dave worked as a financial planner for Equity Funding Securities Corp. He won the Ohio high school shot-put championship in 1965 with a 61-8 toss.
He enjoys handball and fishing. His hometown is Cincinnati, Ohio."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
JOHN LITTLE
Defensive Tackle
No. 57
Oklahoma State
"Little came into his own last year, starting 10 games along the defensive line as injuries depleted the regulars. He saw action at left end (for Philbin) and left tackle (for Finnie), and played so well that he led the team in dropping quarterbacks with eight dumps. Little played an outstanding game against the Colts at Shea, recovering a fumble that led to the Jets' first touchdown. He shared the Heede Award as the most improved and dedicated defensive player.
John put on weight before the 1971 campaign and wants to add even more this time around. Drafted 14th in 1970, John spent 1970 as a backup along the line, starting five games at left end and tackle. He has great strength and quickness, which compensate for his size.
John majored in education. He was a halfback and offensive end in high school. Nicknamed 'Big Devil,' he enjoys hunting and fishing. His hometown is Hot Springs, Arkansas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
SCOTT PALMER
Defensive Tackle
No. 72
Texas
"Palmer had been splitting time at left defensive tackle with Roger Finnie for the first two games of the year when he was seriously injured in an automobile accident. He suffered seven broken ribs and intestinal damage and was sidelined for the remainder of the year. Palmer had been the most impressive rookie overall in training camp and was making a push for a full-time starting assignment. He has recovered fully from his accident and should be once again in a position to challenge for a line slot. Palmer pursues very well and gets to the quarterback. He was drafted seventh in 1971.
His father, Derrell, was a two-way tackle under Ewbank with the Cleveland Browns during the late 1940s. Scott majored in communications and advertising and was a roommate of fellow Jet Bill Zapalac at Texas. His hometown is Houston, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
CHUCK HINTON
Defensive Tackle
No. 64
Northern Carolina College
"Obtained by the Jets after the second game in a trade with Pittsburgh for Dennis Onkotz, Hinton moved in along the line at right tackle after John Elliott was sidelined for the year at New England. Hinton started the last 10 games and played very consistent ball, and made several big plays. He was third on the club in dumping the passer with six sackings, and caused a fumble against Baltimore, knocking the ball from Earl Morrall's hands.
Signed by Pittsburgh as a free agent in 1964 after playing a year with Wheeling in the United Football League, Chuck had been drafted No. 2 by Cleveland in '62 and was traded to Baltimore. He was a very durable player at Pittsburgh, missing just one game in seven years. He has scored two touchdowns, one on an interception (eight yards) in 1964 and one on a fumble recovery in 1967. Chuck also had a seven-yard interception return in 1969. He's excellent against the running plays.
Hinton served in the Army before going to college. He is a partner in a night club with the Steelers' Ben McGee. His hometown is Raleigh, North Carolina."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
MARK LOMAS
Defensive End
No. 84
Northern Arizona
"The only defensive regular to escape injury in 1971, Lomas played most of every game. He proved to be an outstanding right end, earning the praise of defensive line coach Buddy Ryan. Throughout much of the year, he was the senior Jet lineman in only his second season as injuries cut down Gerry Philbin and John Elliott. Lomas came up with the big plays for the defense, dumping opposition quarterbacks seven times, second on the team. He had a crucial dump on Jim Plunkett late in the win over the Patriots.
Mark had a tender shoulder for the last month of the season but stayed in the lineup. He is a versatile lineman with the ability to play either tackle or end. He shared the Heede Award as the most improved and dedicated defensive player.
As a rookie in 1970, Mark handled the left tackle and end slots before being moved to the right side for '71. He was drafted eighth in 1970.
He played on a championship high school football team in Garden Grove, California. He has worked as a substitute teacher during the off-season.
Mark enjoys handball and weight lifting. His hometown is Garden Grove, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
ROGER FINNIE
Defensive End-Offensive Tackle
No. 61
Florida A&M
"Finnie was the starting defensive left tackle for the first half of the season before torn knee ligaments cut him down for the remainder of the year in the San Diego game, and he had to undergo surgery. It was his second serious injury in as many seasons. He tore ligaments in his ankle in 1970 and played in only three games.
Roger is a versatile player, who has won starting jobs on both the offensive and defensive lines in his three years to date. He won the starting right tackle slot after five games as a rookie in 1969 and was off to a great start there in 1970 before his ankle injury. Roger was expected to solve the Jets' right tackle problems.
Last year he was moved back to defense to fill a tackle slot, after Steve Thompson retired, and proved to be a good one. Finnie is very strong on running plays but needs to polish his pass rush. He had one quarterback dump.
Drafted 14th in 1969, his hometown is Miami, Florida."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
AL ATKINSON
Middle Linebacker
No. 62
Villanova
"Al has been compared to the Bears' Dick Butkus by Jets' Coach Weeb Ewbank, who says that Al 'stands them to the line' just as well and is perhaps better on pass coverage. Al came to New York just before the 1965 season's opener.
He is an outstanding after-dinner speaker."
-1972 Topps No. 159
"The defensive captain of the Jets for the past three seasons, Atkinson had a steady year at middle linebacker despite missing four games due to a severely sprained ankle. He suffered the injury in practice on October 20 and was forced onto the move list for the Miami, San Diego and Kansas City games. He sat out the Dallas game later to rest the ankle.
Atkinson played outstanding games against New England, causing a Carl Garrett fumble which led to a touchdown in the second encounter. He also had two interceptions, against St. Louis and Buffalo. A valuable man in the middle, teams exploited his absence during his injuries. Al has been compared to Dick Butkus by Weeb Ewbank who says, 'Atkinson stands them up at the line just as well,' and is perhaps better on pass coverage. He also has the speed to go outside if needed.
Atkinson was twice voted the 'Most Underrated' defensive player in the old AFL but has come out of the shadows in his last two seasons. He played the second half of the Super Bowl with a separated shoulder, not telling anybody about it. Al was the third-round draft choice of Buffalo in '65 but came to the Jets for the $100 waiver price just prior to the opener. He earned a starting role for the final two games of '65 after good work on special teams.
A very active member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Atkinson made the USO tour to Vietnam after the '68 season. He operates the Atkinson & Mullen travel agency in Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania. His hometown is Upper Darby, Pennsylvania."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
JOHN EBERSOLE
Middle Linebacker
No. 55
Penn State
"Ebersole started five games for the Jets in '71 when Al Atkinson was sidelined with an ankle injury, and also worked well on special teams. He had his most outstanding game against Kansas City when he was named the MVP on defense. He also filled in against Miami, San Diego, Dallas and New England.
Ebersole played in all 14 games as a rookie in 1970, earning the reputation of being a tough, reckless player. He blocked a field goal try by the Vikings' Fred Cox in the '70 victory over Minnesota.
Walt Michaels, linebacker coach, looks for Ebersole to continue his improvement this year. John could also be used outside, if necessary.
Drafted fourth in 1970, Ebersole majored in physical education. He went to Altoona High (Pennsylvania) with the Bengals' Mike Reid. John worked in the off-season as a public relations man for Ward Trucking in Altoona, his hometown."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
LARRY GRANTHAM
Linebacker
No. 60
Mississippi
"Grantham played the best football of his long, distinguished career in 1971. He was acclaimed for his outstanding performance by being named the Jets' Most Valuable Player by his teammates, only the third defensive player to win the honor.
He calls the defensive signals and is considered by Weeb Ewbank to be another coach on the field. He was a stabilizing link in the injury-racked defensive unit in '71, as he and Mark Lomas were the only regulars to play in every game. Larry suffered a broken cheekbone in the third quarter of the last game of the year to spoil his injury-free campaign.
He played well against the running attack to his side, closing down consistently. He has played 45 regular-season games in a row and played in the middle against Kansas City as the Jets went to a four-linebacker formation. Grantham had outstanding games against Buffalo, Miami, San Diego and the Chiefs, and was named the most valuable defensive player against the Dolphins. He picked off his 24th career interception against Buffalo and has earned the praise of O.J. Simpson after each encounter with the Bills. He's a master of calling blitzes.
Named Pro Athlete of the Year in Mississippi in 1967, Larry was drafted by both the Jets and Baltimore in 1960. He's vice-president in the loan department of the First National Bank of Jackson, Mississippi. He likes to spend his free time golfing or fishing and is a 5-handicap golfer. His hometown is Crystal Springs, Mississippi."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
RALPH BAKER
Linebacker
No. 51
Penn State
"After a strong season in 1970, Baker fell victim to the injury sequence which decimated the Jets defense. He suffered a broken wrist at Miami and was on the move list for two games. He broke the navicular bone in his right wrist, the same bone that Joe Namath fractured the year before.
Ralph played with his right arm in a cast for the rest of the season. He played in the middle in the Jets' 4-4 defense against Baltimore and did the same against San Francisco, but suffered a broken thumb on his right hand in that game. Baker played out the season, however, hobbled as a 'one-arm' linebacker.
He had a top-notch year in '70, dumping the quarterback five times and intercepting two passes, missing no games. He had calcium removed from his foot in January 1971. Ralph had his finest pro campaign in 1968, topping it off with two fumble recoveries in the AFL Championship Game and the Super Bowl.
Ralph provides tough pass coverage and plays well against runs to his side. He's strong at the point of attack.
Signed as a sixth-round draft choice in 1964, he majored in mathematics in college. Ralph likes to hunt and fish and makes his home in Greenlawn, New York. His hometown is Lewistown, Pennsylvania."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
PAUL CRANE
Linebacker-Center
No. 56
Alabama
"The number one fill-in at either outside linebacker post, Crane has seen a lot of action the past two years when injuries have struck the Jets' linebacking corps. He started for Ralph Baker for three games last year on the left side and was an outside starter when the Jets went to a four-linebacker formation. Paul recovered a free punt in the victory over Miami to set up a touchdown and had a fumble recovery in the second clash with Baltimore.
He has had a fine six-year career since joining up as a free agent. Crane makes the center snap on punts and has made a habit of blocking kicks, batting a field goal in 1969 and smothering three punts in '68. He has scored two career touchdowns, one on a 26-yard interception return and another on a blocked punt recovery in '69.
Crane had his finest year in 1969 when he started three games. He was named winner of the Heede Award given to the Jets' most dedicated and improved defensive player. Paul was signed as a free agent after impressing Jet coaches in workouts for the 1966 Senior Bowl.
A member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, he enjoys fishing for relaxation. His hometown is Prichard, Alabama."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
BILL ZAPALAC
Linebacker
No. 53
Texas
"Zapalac spent his rookie year as a backup along the defensive line and at outside linebacker, and saw most of his action at defensive end. He came up with one of the biggest plays in the victory over Kansas City. Inserted to provide an added pass rush in the last minute, Zapalac dumped Len Dawson and helped smother the Chiefs' last threat.
Bill is a strong and versatile player. He's looked for to work strictly as a linebacker this season, playing on the outside. He was a fourth round draft pick in 1971.
Zapalac played on three Cotton Bowl squads ('69-'71) and on two national championship squads. His father, Willie, is the head offensive coach for the Longhorns, and his brother, Jeff, was the starting center at Texas last year. Bill majored in architectural engineering. His hometown is Austin, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
EARLIE THOMAS
Cornerback
No. 45
Colorado State
"Anchor man of the Jets defensive backfield, Thomas continued to improve in his second year to rank as one of the best cornerbacks in all of football. He patrols the right corner with such efficiency that opposing quarterbacks were not throwing his way.
Thomas has made the big plays for the Jets. He helped set up the Jets' victory over AFC champ Miami in the Orange Bowl when he stole the ball from Paul Warfield's hands to turn the game's momentum around. The Jets subsequently scored two touchdowns to win 14-10.
Earlie suffered bruised ribs in the return match with Miami and was limited in his work for two weeks. He exited early from the San Diego game and sat out the victory over Kansas City.
Thomas is considered All-Pro material by Jets coach Walt Michaels. As a rookie against the Rams, he was tested 11 times by Roman Gabriel and gave up no catches for his best day as a pro. Earlie also had a remarkable one-handed interception to set up a field goal in the win over Minnesota. He has good speed, long arms and doesn't shy from closing down on the runs to his corner. He was drafted 11th in 1970.
Thomas is a former Denver Golden Gloves light-heavyweight champion and works out with Willie Brown, Oakland's All-Pro cornerback. His brother, John, plays cornerback for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Earlie majored in entomology, the science of insects. His hometown is Denver, Colorado."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
RICH SOWELLS
Cornerback
No. 46
Alcorn A&M
"Rich started six games at left cornerback after Steve Tannen suffered a strained right knee in the opening game of the year. He was given a rocky reception to the pros by St. Louis' John Gilliam but steadied himself after that to perform quite adequately.
He spent part of the season on the move list; he suffered a six-week setback at training camp when he pulled a muscle in his left leg. Sowells was not able to perform in the first three preseason games.
Sowells is very quick and can run with anyone. Drafted 12th in 1971, his biggest thrill in athletics was his 72-yard pass interception return as a senior. Rich majored in business administration.
He was on his high school track, baseball and basketball teams, and enjoys ping pong. His hometown is Huntsville, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
JOHN DOCKERY
Cornerback
No. 43
Harvard
"Dockery started at left cornerback the final seven games of the year and did an outstanding job on the corner as he had done in 1969 as a regular. A great athlete in general, he also worked at right corner when Earlie Thomas was injured. John had two interceptions, both against Buffalo.
He also worked in practice as a wide receiver and is one of the few players in the pros to go both ways. He caught a six-yard pass against Denver in 1969, and also hauled in a 41-yarder in the College All-Star Game.
Dockery tied for the club lead in interceptions with five in 1969. He came up to the active roster of the Jets for the final three games of 1968 and played in the AFL Championship game and in the Super Bowl. He has good speed.
He signed as a free agent in 1967 and played for the Bridgeport Jets. He played a year of minor league baseball with Pittsfield (Massachusetts) and was director of the Joe Namath football camp in New England.
John enjoys art and music. He's working on his thesis in urban planning at Columbia's Graduate School of Architecture. His hometown is Brooklyn, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
GUS HOLLOMON
Strong Safety
No. 48
Houston
"The starting strong safety over for past two years until injuries slowed him over the latter part of '71, Hollomon has had five interceptions as a Jet. He had a big theft against Kansas City to help preserve the victory over the Chiefs, and had another interception at Buffalo to set up a touchdown. Gus also worked as a linebacker in the Jets' 4-4 defense on several occasions during 1971, and is the backup punter.
Hollomon suffered a strained right knee against New England and was hobbled thereafter. He suffered a badly broken left wrist against Dallas and was put on the reserve list for the final two games of the year.
Hollomon was a starter for Denver in 1969 and handled the Broncos' punting chores with a 39.7 average. He was obtained in 1970 for Cornell Gordon.
He majored in education and spends the off-seasons hunting. Gus was nicknamed 'Hound Dog' by Dickie Post. His hometown is Beaumont, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
PHIL WISE
Strong Safety
No. 27
Nebraska-Omaha
"Phil started eight games at strong safety, drawing the praise of defensive coach Walt Michaels. He had a 33-yard interception return to set up a touchdown against Buffalo, and held the Bills' Jan White to 0-for-7 on the day. He also blocked a punt against San Francisco to set up a touchdown and recovered a fumble against New England to set up the winning touchdown.
He was also used by Ewbank under kickoffs and took back eight for 210 yards, good for a 26.3 average, best on the team. Wise proved himself to be a tough hitter in the strong safety job and could be used on the corner in a pinch. He also has running back possibilities if necessary.
Drafted in the sixth round in '71, Wise worked during the off-season as an admissions counselor at Nebraska-Omaha, helping to recruit minority group students and help them obtain financial aid. He majored in criminal justice, specializing in probation and parole problems. Phil's hometown is Omaha, Nebraska."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
STEVE TANNEN
Free Safety
No. 21
Florida
"Tannen was All-America at cornerback for Florida. He played in the Senior Bowl, All-American Bowl and College All-Star Game.
Tannen was drafted No. 1 by the Jets in 1970 and helped anchor the completely rebuilt backfield which led pro football in lowest percentage of passes completed against it. He also made a habit of blocking kicks- he knocked down two field goals (against Boston and Pittsburgh) and blocked a punt at Buffalo and returned it for a touchdown."
-1972 Coca-Cola
"Tannen will battle for the left corner job. He had a disappointing year in 1971 due to injuries that limited his services. He suffered a knee tendon strain in the opening game and sat out two. When he returned he pulled a muscle trying to block a punt and was limited again.
He had an outstanding game against Kansas City, holding Otis Taylor to only two grabs for 35 yards. Steve blocked a punt against New England to set up a Bobby Howfield field goal.
He had a good year in 1970. He shut out New England's Ron Sellers with an 0-for-8 day at Shea Stadium. Steve has made a habit of blocking kicks. In addition to the blocked punt in 1971, he knocked down two field goals (against New England and Pittsburgh) and scored with a blocked punt against Buffalo in 1970. Tannen was the number one draft choice in 1970.
He was an outstanding athlete in the Florida Relays as a senior in high school. At Florida he majored in finance and competed in track in the high hurdles, pole vault, high jump and 440 relay.
Steve enjoys writing and poetry and owns a boutique and restaurant, 'Tuesday Morning,' in Gainesville, Florida. He's also a cattle and horse trader. His hometown is Miami, Florida."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
W.K. HICKS
Free Safety
No. 33
Texas Southern
"One of the Jets' best trade acquisitions, W.K. came to New York from Houston for a draft choice in 1970. He won the Jets' starting free safety position in his first year with the club and has led New York in pass interceptions for the past two seasons.
W.K. is in the Air Force Reserve."
-1972 Topps No. 246
"The dean of the Jets secondary, Hicks has been at free safety for the past two seasons. He led the team in interceptions for the second straight year, thieving four opposition passes and returning them 46 yards. He played a steady season in the free safety slot, as he did in his first year as a Jet when he intercepted eight passes. Hicks gives needed stability to the younger members of the defensive backfield. He started all but the three games when he was hobbled by bruised ribs.
W.K. had a seven-year career with Houston before joining the Jets in 1970. He played cornerback and safety for the Oilers and was a starter for six years. Hicks led the AFL in interceptions in 1965 with nine. Twice an AFL All-Star, his 39 career interceptions rank fourth among active AFC players. He came to the Jets from Houston for a fifth-round choice during the 1970 draft.
W.K. was a quarterback and safety in high school. His given name is Wilmer Kenzie and his hometown is Texarkana, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
BOBBY HOWFIELD
Place Kicker
No. 3
"The Jets' leading scorer, Howfield converted on eight of 19 field goal attempts and 25 of 26 extra points. His strong leg helped the Jets kicking game, booting the team's kickoffs deeper than they had been in past Jet seasons. Howfield did not get many opportunities from good range, trying 12 of his 19 from beyond the 35-yard line.
He kicked two field goals in a strong wind to provide the winning points against Kansas City. Bobby added insurance in a 13-6 win over New England with a 42-yarder, his longest of the year.
Howfield is the first soccer-style kicker Weeb Ewbank has ever coached. He came to the U.S. with the Chiefs after a Chiefs kicking clinic found him in England. He was cut by the Chiefs and went to Denver in 1968. He handled the Broncos' kicking for three years. Over the past three seasons, only 79 of his 173 kickoffs have been returned. Bobby has a career total of 262 points, 213 of them at Denver. He was obtained from Denver in a trade for Jim Turner in January 1971.
Howfield has worked in the insurance department of a bank in Denver, where he makes his home. His hometown is Bushey, England."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
GRANT GUTHRIE
Place Kicker
No. 11
Florida State
1971
Grant kicked a 52-yard field goal against the Steelers last year to establish a new Bills record. On October 4 against the Jets, he kicked two field goals, including a 40-yarder, and was successful on all four of his extra-point attempts in a 34-31 Buffalo upset victory over a New York club still being led by Joe Namath. For the season, Grant was the Bills' leading scorer with 54 points.
In college Grant set all of the Florida State kicking records. As a senior, he kicked field goals of 54, 42 and 36 yards to beat Miami. He played in the Gator Bowl, Peach Bowl and the North-South Shrine Game.
STEVE O'NEAL
Punter-Wide Receiver
No. 20
Texas A&M
"O'Neal has been the Jet punter for the past three seasons. He holds the record for most punts in one season- 78- set last year. Steve is the all-time pro record holder for the longest punt- 98 yards against Denver in his second game as a pro in 1969. He had his finest game ever that day with a 57.4 average on five punts.
He has seen brief action as a wide receiver and will continue to work at that spot as a backup. O'Neal got off a remarkable left-footed punt from the end zone against Buffalo in 1969 to help save that game. The punt cost him the league punting crown but helped get a victory. Drafted 13th in 1969, he has had problems with his leg tiring late in the year.
O'Neal spends much of his free time carving models of teeth- he wants to become a dentist, and attends the U. of Tennessee Medical School during the off-season. He holds the Texas A&M record for the indoor long jump. Steve's hometown is Hearne, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
CHRIS FARASOPOULOS
Kick Returner-Free Safety
No. 19
Brigham Young
"An outstanding kickoff return artist for the Jets last season, Chris led the club in punt returns as he gained 155 yards for an 8.2 average.
The NCAA record holder for combined punt and kickoff returns at Brigham Young, he had a career total of 2,454 yards combined. Chris led the nation in punt returns in 1969 with 35 for 527 yards and a touchdown.
Chris was drafted as an infielder by the Baltimore Orioles."
-1972 Topps No. 36
"Farasopoulos handled nearly all of the Jets' kick returns last year, compiling the best punt return average (8.2) by a Jet in the past four years. He took back 25 kickoffs and 19 punts, and his returns helped give the Jets better field position than they had in past years.
He is also a free safety, starting the first two games of the year (against Baltimore and St. Louis) while W.K. Hicks was recuperating from bruised ribs. Chris recovered a Jets onsides kick in the home opener against Buffalo. He has good speed and could also handle the corner if necessary. He was a third-round draft choice in 1971.
Born in Piraeus, Greece, Farasopoulos spoke no English until he came to the U.S. at the age of five. His name is pronounced Fair-a-SOP-a-lus. He ran a 9.8 100-yard dash in track at BYU. Chris was drafted as an infielder by the Baltimore Orioles but declined to sign when they asked him to shorten his name. He majored in physical education. His hometown is Torrance, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1972 Yearbook, edited by Frank Ramos
