Countdown to kickoff: Wayne Chrebet is the greatest No. 80 in Jets history

The former wide receiver is a member of the franchise's Ring of Honor
Countdown to kickoff: Wayne Chrebet is the greatest No. 80 in Jets history
Countdown to kickoff: Wayne Chrebet is the greatest No. 80 in Jets history /

Jets training camp will begin in five weeks. In the meantime, Gang Green fans are anxiously counting down to the much anticipated regular season opener at home vs. the division rival Bills on Sept. 8.

With the countdown to kickoff at 80 days away, let's take a look back at the best No. 80 in Jets history: Wayne Chrebet. 

Wayne Chrebet is not only the greatest No. 80 in Jets history but also the best undrafted player ever for the franchise. 

The 5-foot-10, 188-pound wide receiver out of Hofstra went unselected in the 1995 NFL Draft but seized a walk-on opportunity with the Jets. Because of his anonymity and stature, a security guard questioned whether Chrebet was actually with the Jets during the first day of training camp, with a team official having to verify his identity. 

However, Chrebet made his name well known after an impressive training camp and preseason and climbed from 11th on the depth chart all the way into making the opening-day roster. 

The rest is beautiful Gang Green history. 

The scrappy Chrebet spent his entire 11-year career with the Jets and was one of the biggest fan favorites in franchise history. 

Chrebet had many memorable moments with the Jets, such as amassing 12 receptions for 162 yards and five third-down conversions vs. the Rams in 1995 and hauling in all eight passes targeted to him vs. the Bills in 2004.  

During his time in the green and white, Chrebet caught passes from an astounding 13 different players. 

Unfortunately, Chrebet's career ended on Nov. 6, 2005 against the Chargers due to a concussion. However, in fitting fashion, Mr. Third Down's final catch moved the chains for the Jets. Chrebet pulled in 379 third down catches for first downs in his career. 

Chrebet amazingly finished second in receptions (580) and third in receiving yards (7,365) and touchdown catches (41) in Jets history. The Jets icon was inducted into the franchise's Ring of Honor in 2014. 

Chrebet's No. 80 has yet to be worn by any other Jet since his retirement and it's rightfully expected to remain that way. Chrebet's career is an incredible inspiration story and a testament to how hard work and dedication can help you overcome the odds. 


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