Curtis Martin Rushing

Lore & Background

Martin joined the Jets in 1998 after signing a six-year, $36-million offer sheet as a restricted free agent. The Patriots did not match the offer, and the Jets sent their first and third round selections in the 1998 NFL draft to New England as compensation. In his first seven seasons with the Jets, Martin missed only one game and was selected to the Pro Bowl three times. In 2004, he won the NFL rushing title with 1,697 yards at age 31, and was named an All-Pro and elected to his fifth and final Pro Bowl.

In Their Own Story

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the turf as Curtis Martin lined up behind center, the roar of the crowd at Giants Stadium fading into a rhythmic chant. He took the handoff, his eyes scanning the defensive line for a seam that only he could see. With a sudden burst of acceleration, he slipped through a gap, absorbing a hit from a linebacker but keeping his balance upright. The pile-up formed instantly, but Martin was already on his feet, dusting off his shoulder pads, knowing another ten yards toward immortality had been secured.

Reader's Guide

Martin's five Pro Bowl selections with the Jets tie Freeman McNeil for the most by a running back in franchise history, according to the source. He is sixth all-time in total NFL rushing yards.

Did You Know?

• Martin won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 1995.
• He rushed for 1,487 yards as a rookie, leading the AFC.
• In 2004, he won the NFL rushing title at age 31.
• Martin is fifth all-time in total NFL rushing yards.
• He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2012.