Jets fans have seen it all: heartbreak, head-scratching moments, and historic highs. While plenty of plays have been etched into memory, some stand above the rest. These aren’t just highlights, they’re core memories for anyone who bleeds green and white. Here are the Top 5 moments, outside of Super Bowl III. That one was the best, unfortunately, most of us weren’t alive for it.
1. The 2010 Divisional Win Over the Patriots
January 16, 2011. The Jets go into Foxborough and knock off Tom Brady and the 14–2 Patriots in the AFC Divisional Round. Mark Sanchez threw three touchdowns, the defense dominated, and Bart Scott delivered the most iconic postgame interview in team history. “Can’t wait” became a rallying cry. This wasn’t just a playoff win — it was a statement.
2. The Monday Night Miracle (2000)
Trailing 30–7 to the Dolphins at the start of the 4th quarter, it looked over. But Vinny Testaverde and the Jets weren’t done. A furious comeback tied the game at 37–37 before Marcus Coleman picked off Jay Fiedler in overtime, setting up the game-winning score. A rollercoaster of emotion, and still one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history.
3. Garrett Wilson’s One-Handed Catch (2023 vs Bills)
On a night when Aaron Rodgers went down just four plays into his Jets debut, the team still found a way. And Garrett Wilson’s ridiculous one-handed touchdown catch was the spark. Twisting mid-air, adjusting to a tipped pass, and dragging his toes in the end zone — it was the kind of play that turns a talented receiver into a star.
4. Leon Washington’s 92-Yard Kick Return (2007)
A blur of green and white. In Week 3 against the Browns, Leon Washington took a kick return 92 yards to the house, juking defenders and showing off rare breakaway speed. It wasn’t just a special-teams touchdown — it was the kind of play that swung momentum and brought fans to their feet. Washington remains one of the most electric returners the Jets have ever had.
5. Curtis Martin Clinches the 2004 Rushing Title
At 31 years old, Curtis Martin led the NFL in rushing yards, the oldest player ever to do it. In Week 17 against the Rams, he racked up 153 yards to seal the title. It was a fitting tribute to a player defined by consistency, toughness, and class. For a generation of Jets fans, Curtis Martin was the standard.
These moments weren’t just big, they were defining. Whether you were in the stadium, watching at home, or still yelling about them in the JetNation forums, these are the plays we remember. And no matter what comes next, they’ll always be part of what it means to be a Jets fan.
