Joe Klecko
Inducted:
2023
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
263 lb (119 kg)
Born:
October 15, 1953
Chester, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
College:
Temple
Joe Klecko was one of the most versatile and feared defensive linemen of the late 1970s and 1980s, known for his strength, quickness, and ability to play multiple positions on the line. Born on September 30, 1953, he spent his entire 12-year career with the New York Jets (1977–1988), anchoring the famous “New York Sack Exchange.”
Klecko was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and earned First-Team All-Pro honors multiple times, showcasing his dominance as a defensive end, tackle, and nose tackle. His relentless pass-rushing ability and leadership helped the Jets’ defense become one of the most respected units in the league.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2023, Klecko is remembered as one of the most complete and versatile defensive linemen in NFL history.
Klecko's Awards and Honors
- NFL Defensive Player of the Year (NEA, PFWA) (1981)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1981, 1985)
- 2× First-team All-East (1974, 1975)
- Second-team All-Pro (1983)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1981, 1983–1985)
- NFL sacks leader (1981)
NFL Records
- Only player in NFL history named First-Team All-Pro at three different defensive line positions
- Key contributor to Jets’ record-setting defensive line in the early 1980s
- Renowned for versatility, strength, and pass-rushing excellence
NFL Teams
New York Jets (1977–1987)
Indianapolis Colts (1988)
NFL Draft:
1977: 6th round, 144th overall pick
New York Jets
Number Worn:
73
NFL Stats
Seasons:
12 (1977-1988)
Games Played:
155
Game Started:
145
Fumble recoveries:
9
Interceptions:
1
Sacks:
78.0
