The NY Jets are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL. With 67 years of history, they have experienced plenty of ups and downs. The franchise began on August 14, 1959. Over time, founded as the New York Titans, the team changed its name to the Jets. The many players and coaches who have been part of the Jets over the past 67 years reflect the franchise’s rich history. Do you ever wonder who the first head coach of the NY Jets was? That man is Sammy Baugh.
Sammy Baugh became the franchise’s first head coach, and his impact did not end there. Sammy was a legendary player. He was an amazing quarterback, punter, and defensive back for the Washington redskins from 1937-1952. At some point in his career, Sammy led the NFL in passing, punting, and interceptions in a single season in 1943. Sammy led his team to two NFL championships.
In the 1937 NFL Draft, the team chose Sammy sixth overall after his standout career at Texas Christian University. He was a 2 time all american in college football. In the NFL, Sammy earned seven All-NFL selections and recorded 21,886 passing yards, 187 touchdowns, 31 interceptions as a defensive back, and a career punting average of 45.1 yards. Sammy Baugh revolutionized football by pioneering the modern passing game, where he led the NFL in passing six times and winning 2 NFL championships. He was a member of the inaugural Pro Football Hall of Fame class in 1963. Sammy remains one of the greatest players in NFL history.
This came after 16 seasons with the Washington Redskins. Sammy went to coach with the New York Titans, now known as the New York Jets. In his first two AFL seasons, Sammy led the team to a combined 14–14 record. After just two seasons with the Jets, he went on to coach the Houston Oilers. Sammy Baugh was not just a legendary player; he was a role model for our league. Thanks to Sammy Baugh, players are now achieving historic milestones on the football field in offense, defense, and special teams.
Sammy Baugh remains one of the greats. He brought pro-style passing to the AFL with the Jets. We are grateful for what you have accomplished as a player and what you have done as a coach for this franchise. Thank you, Sammy Baugh! Rest in peace
