Jets Super Bowl hero Matt Snell sadly passes away at 84
The New York Jets family suffered a crushing loss in the early stages of the 2026 offseason, as they were informed of the passing of star fullback and Super Bowl III hero Matt Snell. No. 41 is one of the main reasons the Jets have a Super Bowl ring they can claim ownership of.Snell, who became famous for scoring the Jets' lone offensive touchdown in their 16-7 Super Bowl III victory against the Baltimore Colts, has passed away at the age of 84. Snell's son Beau confirmed the news of the former Ohio State star's passing to Rich Cimini of ESPN.While Joe Namath's star power and the vertical passing game got most of the attention, the Jets were one of the best rushing teams in the league perpetually in Namath's tenure. Snell being able to flatten defenders with his 6-2, 220-pound frame was one of the main reasons for that success.Snell formed a smash-and-dash combination with Emerson Boozer that helped supplement the Namath and Don Maynard aerial circus. Snell's power is one of the main reasons they busted through a tough Colts defensive line when Namath was not having his best game. Snell played his entire nine-year career with the Jets, six of which came in the AFL. Snell ran for 4,285 yards and 24 touchdowns in his career despite splitting carries with Boozer for a large chunk of his career. In the run-heavy days of the 1960s, Snell became an invaluable asset for Weeb Ewbank.Snell became famous for his resistance to reuniting with the Jets after he retired, often choosing to skip out on some alumni events. Even though he never officially reconciled, Snell's legacy as one of the greatest running backs in franchise history is never going to be eroded. Unfortunately, there are increasingly fewer members of the '68 team who are still with us. Snell's passing does not negate the brilliance and clutch nature of his career. Our thoughts and best wishes are with the Snell family in what is assuredly a very stressful and difficult time for everyone involved.
