Jets Off-field

Jets to retire Klecko’s number

Admin - August 1, 2004

The New York Jets have decided to retire #73 - the number worn by former DT Joe Klecko. During his 11-year career with the Jets (1977-87), Joe Klecko played in 140 games and recorded 77.5 sacks. A 6th round draft pick from Temple, Klecko became one of the most dominant defensive players in the Jets history. He was selected four times to the Pro Bowl and became the first NFL player to be named to the Pro Bowl at three different positions - DT, NT, and DE. In 1981 Joe Klecko led the Jets with 20.5 sacks and was named the NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Klecko was also a 3-time All Pro selection - 1981, 1983, 1985.