Offensive Tackle
1st Round
USC
"From USC, he was the Jets' No. 1 choice. 'He has everything to a top pro,' says a scout, 'size (6-5, 260), speed and intelligence.' "
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"In front of every successful back, there is an offensive lineman who makes his accomplishments possible. Ricky Bell's success was helped considerably by 6-5, 265-pound Marvin Powell.
'Powell was the best offensive lineman in America,' says USC coach John Robinson. 'He has a great future as a pro.'
Powell was a devastating blocker who anchored the line at strongside tackle. When Bell made his sweeps, it was Powell leading the way. During the season Powell lined up against Outland Trophy winner Ross Browner of Notre Dame and more than held his own. He's one of only ten players to have been named to the All-Pac 8 team three years.
'I really like the game of football,' says Powell. 'It's the Spartan type of life I like to lead. Football is a lot like the Army. I know, because I was brought up in a military atmosphere. I saw my father go off to war three times. He was a gung ho soldier and I'm a lot like him.
'If you are going off to war,' he continues, 'wouldn't you want to be as totally prepared as you could be? I love football and grew up to love hard work.'
'Powell has as much ability as the 1967 Outland Trophy winner (perennial All-Pro Ron Yary),' says former USC coach John McKay. 'His potential is unlimited. The only question is how good he wants to be. He is big, has awfully good speed and great intensity.' "
-Hank Lowenkron, Complete Sports 1977 Pro Football Special Preview
" 'The best athlete in the whole draft,' says Oakland's Al Davis of the Jets' number one choice (the fourth player picked in the first round).
'We can build around him,' says head coach Walt Michaels. 'He gives us a double dimension as a great blocker for both passing and rushing.'
'If you're here 10 years from now, he'll still be our right tackle' say Jets' scouts.
Powell was named first-team All-American by UPI, The Sporting News and Football News as a senior and coaches' first-teamAll-America as a junior. He was a three-time first-team All-Pac 8 and twice All-West Coast. One of four sophomores to start for USC's 1974 national championship team, Powell played in three Rose Bowls and a Liberty Bowl.
He's an overpowering blocker with quickness (5.1 in the 40), intelligence and durability. 'Marvin loves to play this game and I love to watch him,' says USC coach John Robinson. Former USC coach John McKay says, 'He's another Ron Yary. He's a devastating blocker. Sometimes you look at him and say, nobody can be that good.'
Nicknamed 'Boomer,' Powell majored in speech and political science. In high school, he was a football All-American and a standout in basketball and track at 71st High in Fayetteville, North Carolina. He switched from tight end to tackle as a freshman at USC.
Marvin is a very disciplined player who was brought up in a military atmosphere. His father was a career officer who fought in the Normandy invasion at the age of 15 and also in Korea and Vietnam. His brother Reggie is a forward on the Syracuse basketball team.
Marvin's birthplace is Fort Bragg and his hometown is Fayetteville."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
Sunday, March 31, 2019
Friday, March 22, 2019
Monday, February 25, 2019
1977 Profile: Robert Woods
Offensive Tackle
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Hampered last year by a series of injuries, Robert had off-season surgery for bone spurs in his ankle. Medical reports indicate he should be fully recovered.
Robert became a regular at left tackle as a rookie and started 40 straight games until a sprained knee and ankle problems sidelined him for four games last year. He started the final eight games.
'His best years should be just ahead of him,' says head coach Walt Michaels. 'He's been held back by nagging injuries but he plays with pain. He comes off the ball well and is an adequate pass protector.' Woods had his best year in 1975. He has good size and strength.
Woods was coached by the Jets' staff in the Senior Bowl following the 1972 season. He made AP Little All-America and played in the College All-Star Game. He played on three championship teams at Tennessee State.
A student teacher in the off-season, his brother Larry was a defensive tackle for the Jets in 1974 and '75. Robert's birthplace is Florence, Alabama and his hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Hampered last year by a series of injuries, Robert had off-season surgery for bone spurs in his ankle. Medical reports indicate he should be fully recovered.
Robert became a regular at left tackle as a rookie and started 40 straight games until a sprained knee and ankle problems sidelined him for four games last year. He started the final eight games.
'His best years should be just ahead of him,' says head coach Walt Michaels. 'He's been held back by nagging injuries but he plays with pain. He comes off the ball well and is an adequate pass protector.' Woods had his best year in 1975. He has good size and strength.
Woods was coached by the Jets' staff in the Senior Bowl following the 1972 season. He made AP Little All-America and played in the College All-Star Game. He played on three championship teams at Tennessee State.
A student teacher in the off-season, his brother Larry was a defensive tackle for the Jets in 1974 and '75. Robert's birthplace is Florence, Alabama and his hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
Sunday, February 3, 2019
1977 Profile: Phil Wise
Strong Safety
No. 27
Nebraska-Omaha
"Phil is an experienced and gifted athlete who has been hampered throughout his career by injuries (he has missed 21 games), mainly groin pulls. He started 12 games last year but missed the final two with knee ligaments. Medical reports indicate Phil should be fine.
He was moved from strong safety to free safety in the third game during the switch of Burgess Owens to free safety and Shafer Suggs to left corner. The spot seems more suited for his talents- he's a strong defender against running plays.
Phil had 37 solo tackles and 36 assists. He defended four passes and had two sacks- he excels on the safety blitz. 1973, Phil had an 80-yard touchdown run with a fumble recovery.
For his pro career he has three interceptions for 50 yards, a 16.7 average. He has six fumble recoveries. He also has 18 kickoff returns for 441 yards, a 24.5 average.
Phil led Nebraska-Omaha in rushing (983 yards), scoring and kickoff returns as a senior; his career rushing total was 2,129 yards. Having transferred from South Dakota, he was a cornerback as a sophomore, then moved to running back.
He majored in criminal justice. His birthplace and hometown is Omaha."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 27
Nebraska-Omaha
"Phil is an experienced and gifted athlete who has been hampered throughout his career by injuries (he has missed 21 games), mainly groin pulls. He started 12 games last year but missed the final two with knee ligaments. Medical reports indicate Phil should be fine.
He was moved from strong safety to free safety in the third game during the switch of Burgess Owens to free safety and Shafer Suggs to left corner. The spot seems more suited for his talents- he's a strong defender against running plays.
Phil had 37 solo tackles and 36 assists. He defended four passes and had two sacks- he excels on the safety blitz. 1973, Phil had an 80-yard touchdown run with a fumble recovery.
For his pro career he has three interceptions for 50 yards, a 16.7 average. He has six fumble recoveries. He also has 18 kickoff returns for 441 yards, a 24.5 average.
Phil led Nebraska-Omaha in rushing (983 yards), scoring and kickoff returns as a senior; his career rushing total was 2,129 yards. Having transferred from South Dakota, he was a cornerback as a sophomore, then moved to running back.
He majored in criminal justice. His birthplace and hometown is Omaha."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
Thursday, January 10, 2019
1977 Profile: Maurice Tyler
Strong Safety
No. 39
Morgan State
"Acquired on waivers from Detroit on June 22, Tyler signed with the Lions as a free agent after being cut by San Diego shortly before the beginning of the 1976 campaign. He played nine games with the Lions last fall, mostly on special teams.
Tyler was drafted in the 10th round by Buffalo in 1972, became a starter and picked off four interceptions for 61 yards in his rookie season. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week after his performance against New England on November 17. Maurice was claimed on waivers by Denver in 1973 and appeared in 28 games for the Broncos in two years.
He was traded to San Diego in June of 1975 for defensive back Reggie Berry. Maurice was a standout for the Chargers on special teams and an all-purpose at strong safety, weakside linebacker and wide receiver. He made 14 unassisted tackles, several coming as the first man downfield on kick coverage.
In his pro career Tyler has had five interceptions for 61 yards, a 12.2 average, four punt returns for 40 yards, a 10.0 average, and a kickoff return for 23 yards.
Tyler attended Baltimore Community College for two years before transferring to Morgan State. He made the Pittsburgh Courier All-America team in 1971. He played defensive end and safety and also competed in basketball.
Tyler is married and has a one-year-old son, Maurice II. He has a degree in physical education and would like to teach and coach someday. He's nicknamed 'Mo Tee' and 'Reece' and Baltimore is his birthplace and hometown."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 39
Morgan State
"Acquired on waivers from Detroit on June 22, Tyler signed with the Lions as a free agent after being cut by San Diego shortly before the beginning of the 1976 campaign. He played nine games with the Lions last fall, mostly on special teams.
Tyler was drafted in the 10th round by Buffalo in 1972, became a starter and picked off four interceptions for 61 yards in his rookie season. He was named AFC Defensive Player of the Week after his performance against New England on November 17. Maurice was claimed on waivers by Denver in 1973 and appeared in 28 games for the Broncos in two years.
He was traded to San Diego in June of 1975 for defensive back Reggie Berry. Maurice was a standout for the Chargers on special teams and an all-purpose at strong safety, weakside linebacker and wide receiver. He made 14 unassisted tackles, several coming as the first man downfield on kick coverage.
In his pro career Tyler has had five interceptions for 61 yards, a 12.2 average, four punt returns for 40 yards, a 10.0 average, and a kickoff return for 23 yards.
Tyler attended Baltimore Community College for two years before transferring to Morgan State. He made the Pittsburgh Courier All-America team in 1971. He played defensive end and safety and also competed in basketball.
Tyler is married and has a one-year-old son, Maurice II. He has a degree in physical education and would like to teach and coach someday. He's nicknamed 'Mo Tee' and 'Reece' and Baltimore is his birthplace and hometown."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
Wednesday, December 26, 2018
1977 Profile: Richard Todd
Quarterback
No. 14
Alabama
"As a rookie he led the Jets to two of their three victories last season. Walt Michaels says of him, 'The talent is there.'
There are those who think he will play better now that Namath's shadow is gone. His problem last year was to become accustomed to a pro offense after having played at Alabama out of the Wishbone."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"Hopes to prove that all Alabama quarterbacks are created equal. All he proved as a rookie last year was his ability to trot on and off the field at the whim of then-coach Lou Holtz. Todd is still rated as a hot prospect despite a poor rookie season; he completed just 40 percent of his passes.
Todd has a powerful arm but is a long way from having a mature passing touch. He would like to make a career of playing against Buffalo- he engineered both Jet victories over the Bills last year. Todd is a good runner. With this team, he needs to be.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, he was the top-rated quarterback in the class of '76 and was the seventh pick in the draft. Other NFL teams were shocked he was taken so high. Todd signed a five-year contract for over $600,000."
-Rich Kucner, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"Richard was deemed the starting quarterback in the spring by head coach Walt Michaels. 'It's his job until someone takes it away from him,' says Michaels. 'He's got great potential. He's got a strong arm and adds another dimension to our offense with his ability to scramble. He can run out of trouble on third and long situations. Richard did a good job of learning the coverages. His biggest weaknesses now are a lack of experience after coming from the wishbone and the need to work on touch because he still drills the ball. He was very impressive in our spring coaching session.' Todd likes the faith put in him by Michaels.
Last year was difficult for him competing against his boyhood idol, Joe Namath. He says that's all behind him now. 'If anyone had told me I would have started six games last year, I'd have told him he was crazy,' says Todd. But the number one draft choice did start six games and was the quarterback of record in two of the Jets' three victories, both over Buffalo. He led the Jets on the winning field goal drive against Buffalo while relieving an injured Namath. He had his best statistical day against Miami with 12 of 24 for 183 yards.
For the season Richard played in 13 games, completed 65 of 162 for 870 yards, had three touchdowns and 12 interceptions and was sacked 29 times. He rushed for 128 yards on 28 carries, a 4.4 average, with a touchdown.
Richard was hurt by the fact that he signed and reported late. He missed the basic offensive philosophy of the first three weeks of training camp.
He reported to camp and played in a game one week later. Richard did have a standout preseason game against the Raiders going 18-for-34 with 224 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions. He drew praise from Oakland head coach John Madden.
The Jets' scouting staff labeled Todd the 'best quarterback in the draft.' They pinpointed his 'size, release and arm.' He has the poise and desire to succeed.
For his college career, Richard completed 101 of 189 passes for 1,642 yards and 16 touchdowns. He rushed 1,254 yards on 304 carries for 16 touchdowns. He was named All-SEC by AP and UPI, MVP by his teammates and MVP in the 1975 Sugar Bowl. He was also MVP of the Senior Bowl, passing for 332 yards and two touchdowns as a dropback passer. Richard was picked for the College All-Star Game in Chicago but did not play.
Richard earned a degree in physical education this spring. His biggest thrill was playing under Bear Bryant. He has followed Joe Namath's career since junior high school but refers to himself as 'just plain Richard.' Polite and soft-spoken, his hobbies include fishing and boating. Richard's birthplace is Birmingham, Alabama and his hometown is Mobile, Alabama."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 14
Alabama
"As a rookie he led the Jets to two of their three victories last season. Walt Michaels says of him, 'The talent is there.'
There are those who think he will play better now that Namath's shadow is gone. His problem last year was to become accustomed to a pro offense after having played at Alabama out of the Wishbone."
-John Devaney, Schenley Pro Football Guide 1977
"Hopes to prove that all Alabama quarterbacks are created equal. All he proved as a rookie last year was his ability to trot on and off the field at the whim of then-coach Lou Holtz. Todd is still rated as a hot prospect despite a poor rookie season; he completed just 40 percent of his passes.
Todd has a powerful arm but is a long way from having a mature passing touch. He would like to make a career of playing against Buffalo- he engineered both Jet victories over the Bills last year. Todd is a good runner. With this team, he needs to be.
Born in Mobile, Alabama, he was the top-rated quarterback in the class of '76 and was the seventh pick in the draft. Other NFL teams were shocked he was taken so high. Todd signed a five-year contract for over $600,000."
-Rich Kucner, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football, 1977 Edition
"Richard was deemed the starting quarterback in the spring by head coach Walt Michaels. 'It's his job until someone takes it away from him,' says Michaels. 'He's got great potential. He's got a strong arm and adds another dimension to our offense with his ability to scramble. He can run out of trouble on third and long situations. Richard did a good job of learning the coverages. His biggest weaknesses now are a lack of experience after coming from the wishbone and the need to work on touch because he still drills the ball. He was very impressive in our spring coaching session.' Todd likes the faith put in him by Michaels.
Last year was difficult for him competing against his boyhood idol, Joe Namath. He says that's all behind him now. 'If anyone had told me I would have started six games last year, I'd have told him he was crazy,' says Todd. But the number one draft choice did start six games and was the quarterback of record in two of the Jets' three victories, both over Buffalo. He led the Jets on the winning field goal drive against Buffalo while relieving an injured Namath. He had his best statistical day against Miami with 12 of 24 for 183 yards.
For the season Richard played in 13 games, completed 65 of 162 for 870 yards, had three touchdowns and 12 interceptions and was sacked 29 times. He rushed for 128 yards on 28 carries, a 4.4 average, with a touchdown.
Richard was hurt by the fact that he signed and reported late. He missed the basic offensive philosophy of the first three weeks of training camp.
He reported to camp and played in a game one week later. Richard did have a standout preseason game against the Raiders going 18-for-34 with 224 yards, a touchdown and no interceptions. He drew praise from Oakland head coach John Madden.
The Jets' scouting staff labeled Todd the 'best quarterback in the draft.' They pinpointed his 'size, release and arm.' He has the poise and desire to succeed.
For his college career, Richard completed 101 of 189 passes for 1,642 yards and 16 touchdowns. He rushed 1,254 yards on 304 carries for 16 touchdowns. He was named All-SEC by AP and UPI, MVP by his teammates and MVP in the 1975 Sugar Bowl. He was also MVP of the Senior Bowl, passing for 332 yards and two touchdowns as a dropback passer. Richard was picked for the College All-Star Game in Chicago but did not play.
Richard earned a degree in physical education this spring. His biggest thrill was playing under Bear Bryant. He has followed Joe Namath's career since junior high school but refers to himself as 'just plain Richard.' Polite and soft-spoken, his hobbies include fishing and boating. Richard's birthplace is Birmingham, Alabama and his hometown is Mobile, Alabama."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
Sunday, December 9, 2018
1977 Profile: Ed Taylor
Cornerback
No. 38
Memphis State
"Ed keeps improving every year and has developed into a dependable corner. 'He's a good all-around back, not a killer, but has good football sense. He still must work on his man coverage,' says head coach Walt Michaels.
He started 11 games at right cornerback in 1976 and was the only defender not moved after the second game. He missed the final two games with a knee contusion but is healthy now. Ed tied for the team lead with two interceptions and led the club with 11 passes defended. He had 32 solo tackles and 26 assists.
In 1975, Ed was chosen by the New York sportswriters as the Jets' rookie of the year. He started five games at strong safety, three at free safety and one at right cornerback. Ed's pro stats include two interceptions (both in '76) for 22 yards, an 11.0 average, and seven kickoff returns (all in '75) for 151 yards, a 26.1 average.
Ed was a three-year starter at Memphis State and played in the Blue-Gray Game and the American Bowl. He had eight interceptions for 79 yards. An outstanding track man, Ed holds the Memphis State 440 record of 47.2 seconds. He was a member of the NCAA championship 440 relay and was a track All-American as selected by U.S. track coaches.
He majored in secondary education and enjoys music and plants. His brother Cliff is a running back for the Green Bay Packers. His birthplace and hometown is Memphis, Tennessee."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
No. 38
Memphis State
"Ed keeps improving every year and has developed into a dependable corner. 'He's a good all-around back, not a killer, but has good football sense. He still must work on his man coverage,' says head coach Walt Michaels.
He started 11 games at right cornerback in 1976 and was the only defender not moved after the second game. He missed the final two games with a knee contusion but is healthy now. Ed tied for the team lead with two interceptions and led the club with 11 passes defended. He had 32 solo tackles and 26 assists.
In 1975, Ed was chosen by the New York sportswriters as the Jets' rookie of the year. He started five games at strong safety, three at free safety and one at right cornerback. Ed's pro stats include two interceptions (both in '76) for 22 yards, an 11.0 average, and seven kickoff returns (all in '75) for 151 yards, a 26.1 average.
Ed was a three-year starter at Memphis State and played in the Blue-Gray Game and the American Bowl. He had eight interceptions for 79 yards. An outstanding track man, Ed holds the Memphis State 440 record of 47.2 seconds. He was a member of the NCAA championship 440 relay and was a track All-American as selected by U.S. track coaches.
He majored in secondary education and enjoys music and plants. His brother Cliff is a running back for the Green Bay Packers. His birthplace and hometown is Memphis, Tennessee."
-1977 New York Jets Media Guide
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