Joe Klecko

Lore & Background

Klecko was born in Chester, Pennsylvania, and played high school football at St. James Catholic High School for Boys. After graduating, he worked for a trucking company and played semi-pro football for the Aston Knights under the assumed name 'Jim Jones' from 'Poland University' to keep his eligibility. Temple's equipment manager saw him play and recommended him to coach Wayne Hardin, who offered a scholarship after watching one quarter. Klecko led Temple in tackles his last three seasons, twice made the All-East team, and received All-American mention as a junior and senior. He won two club boxing titles with Temple in the heavyweight division. Klecko was inducted into the Temple University Sports Hall of Fame in 1987.

In Their Own Story

The lights at Shea Stadium hummed overhead as the fourth quarter wound down. Klecko adjusted his helmet, feeling the familiar ache in his knees that he refused to acknowledge. The quarterback dropped back, eyes scanning for an open receiver. In a split second, Klecko exploded off the line, shedding a blocker with raw power. He closed the distance before the throw could leave the hand, bringing the play down with a thunderous hit that echoed through the stands.

Reader's Guide

Klecko was selected by the New York Jets in the sixth round (144th overall) of the 1977 NFL draft. He formed the 'New York Sack Exchange' with Abdul Salaam, Mark Gastineau, and Marty Lyons. In 1981, the four combined for 66 sacks, including a league-leading 20.5 by Klecko, leading the Jets to their first playoff game since 1969. Klecko moved from defensive end to defensive tackle in 1983 and to nose tackle in 1985. He became the second player in professional football history to be selected to the Pro Bowl at three different positions. After 11 seasons with the Jets, he played one season with the Indianapolis Colts in 1988 and retired due to chronic knee problems. His jersey number 73 was retired by the Jets in 2004, and he was inducted into the Jets' Ring of Honor in 2010.

Did You Know?

• Klecko played semi-pro football under the assumed name 'Jim Jones' from the fictional 'Poland University' to maintain his college eligibility.
• He won two club boxing titles with Temple in the heavyweight division.
• Klecko was sentenced to three months in prison in 1993 for perjury in an insurance fraud case and was pardoned by the Trump Administration on February 12, 2026.
• He had cameo roles as a trucker or strongman in four Burt Reynolds films: Smokey and the Bandit, Smokey and the Bandit II, Cannonball Run, and Heat.
• His son, Dan, was an NFL defensive tackle and won three Super Bowls.