🏈Matt Snell, Legendary Jets Running Back Matt Snell Passes Away at 84.

The New York Jets are mourning the loss of Matt Snell, the iconic running back who scored the go-ahead touchdown in the team’s historic Super Bowl III victory, who passed away Tuesday at the age of 84.

Snell made his mark as part of a formidable backfield alongside Emerson Boozer, helping quarterback Joe Namath and the Jets achieve a 16-7 upset over the heavily favored Baltimore Colts on January 12, 1969. In that game, Snell’s 4-yard touchdown run gave the Jets a 7–0 lead, marking the first time an AFL team led in a Super Bowl. He rushed for a then-record 121 yards on 30 carries, leaving a lasting impression on the sport.

Jets owner Woody Johnson described Snell as “the embodiment of toughness, selflessness, and belief,” highlighting his legendary performance in one of football’s most memorable victories. Friends and teammates remembered him as a “gentle giant” and a “big brother,” a player whose presence inspired those around him both on and off the field.

A Long Island native, Snell excelled at Carle Place High School before attending Ohio State University, where he became a standout fullback. Drafted in 1964, he chose to sign with the Jets, where he quickly made an impact, earning AFL Rookie of the Year honors and setting rookie rushing records that still stand. Over a nine-year career with the Jets, he recorded 4,285 rushing yards, 24 touchdowns, 193 receptions, and seven receiving touchdowns, while earning multiple All-Star and All-AFL selections.

Following his football career, Snell transitioned to business, becoming a partner at Defco Securities and later running his own construction company in New Jersey. He also gained recognition in television advertising, notably as a pitchman for Miller Lite.

Despite his on-field success, Snell’s relationship with the Jets remained complicated. He largely distanced himself from the team after retirement, though he and Boozer were honored together in the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2015.

Matt Snell is survived by his wife Sharon, son Beau, daughter Jada, grandson Donte, and great-nephew Benny Snell Jr., a former Pittsburgh Steelers running back. His legacy as a player, teammate, and trailblazer in Jets history will be remembered by fans and the football community for generations.

How do you remember Matt Snell’s impact on football and the Jets’ legendary Super Bowl III win?