History of The New York Jets

January 5, Walt's Time
Veteran defensive coach Walt Michaels signed a three-year contract to become Jets head coach. Also, Leon Hess was named acting president.

May 12, Waive Goodbye
Joe Namath, who wore No. 12 and was a symbol of the Jets for 12 years, was granted his freedom as he was placed on waivers when a special trade attempt with Los Angeles was unsuccessful (April 1-April 12). A month later, he signed as a free agent with Rams.

May 26, Shea Hey
After a two-month court struggle, the Jets were guaranteed two September games and two October games for each of the remaining six years of the Jets' Shea Stadium lease with New York City beginning in 1978. State Supreme Court Justice Harold Baer also allowed the Jets to play two preseason games plus their 1977 home opener in the Meadowlands.

June 6, Kensil Ascends
Jim Kensil, executive director of the NFL since 1968, was named president and chief operating officer of the Jets. Hess, who served as acting president, became chairman of the board and chief executive officer for corporate matters.

December 30, Ward Resigns
Al Ward, Jets general manager since 1975, resigned.  He became assistant to the president of the AFC (April 1978)