For most Jets fans, the 1997-2011 period is considered the glory years. For any fan, particularly fans in my age bracket (I’m 36 – wow it hurts to say that sometimes), this was the sweet spot for us. That 1997 season quickly turned the Jets from laughingstock to a serious team followed by years of sustained success and quality decision-making. Think about this: during those 15 seasons, the Jets were able to be .500 or better 12 times, make the playoffs 7 times, and win the division twice. Now, any fan would give his left you-know-what to just see the Jets logo in the “In the Hunt” graphic on Sunday Night Football in November. Oh how times have changed.
The Path Back to Relevance
Stephen Russo draws parallels between the 1997 and 2022 New York Jets.