The team was founded in 1959 as the Titans of New York, an original member of the American Football League (AFL); later, the franchise joined the NFL in the AFL–NFL merger in 1970. The team began play in 1960 at the Polo Grounds.

Throwback History of The Jets Players Since 1959

Boomer Esiason

Position: Quarter back

Years: 1993-95

Teams Played : Bengals, Jets, Cardinals,

Achievements: Four-time Pro Bowler. Seventh all-time in franchise passing yards and touchdowns.*

Rick Lyle

Position: Defensive end

Years: 1997-2001

Teams Played: Browns, Ravens, Jets Patriots

Achievements: Super Bowl champion (with Patriots).

LaDainian Tomlinson

Position: Running Back

Years: 2010-11

Teams Played: Chargers, Jets

Achievements: Five-time Pro Bowler. Pro Football Hall of Famer.

Sione Po’uha

Defensive Tackle:

Years: 2005-12

Teams Played: Jets

Achievements: Key defensive lineman on one of the best defenses in team history.

Leonard Williams

Position: Defensive end

Years: 2015-present

Team Played: Jets

Achievements: Pro Bowler (2016)

Mark Sanchez

Position: Quarter Back

Years: 2009-12

Teams Played: Jets, Eagles, Cowboys, Bears, Redskins

Achievements: Four road playoff wins. Sixth all-time in franchise passing yards and touchdowns.

Jim Turner

Position: Place kicker

Years: 1964-70

Teams Played: Jets, Broncos

Achievements: Super Bowl champion. Two-time AFL All-Star.

Burgess Owens

Position: Safety

Years: 1973-79.

Teams Played: Jets, Raiders

Achievements: Super Bowl Champion (with Raiders). Started all 97 games with Jets.

Sheldon Richardson

Position: Defensive tackle

Years: 2013-16

Teams Played: Jets, Seahawks, Vikings, Browns

Achievements: Defensive rookie of the year (2013). Pro Bowler (2014).

Richie Anderson

Position: Full back

Years: 1993-2003

Teams Played: Jets, Cowboys

Achievements: Pro Bowler (2000)