Matt Snell Passes Away
Matt Snell, the former star fullback for the New York Jets, died of natural causes at an assisted-living facility on Long Island on March 10, 2026. He was 84 years old at the time of his death.
Snell was a significant figure in Jets history, having played nine years with the team. He was the AFL Rookie of the Year in 1964 and went on to become a three-time Pro Bowl selection and a one-time All-Pro selection. Over his career, he rushed for 4,285 yards and scored 24 touchdowns.
His most memorable performance came during Super Bowl III, where he scored the only touchdown for the Jets, rushing for 121 yards. This game is often regarded as one of the most significant moments in professional football history, as it helped solidify the NFL’s prominence.
Snell was a first-round pick in the 1964 AFL draft and made an immediate impact on the field. Despite his success, he had a complicated relationship with the Jets organization after his retirement, stemming from a grudge that led him to skip his Ring of Honor induction ceremony in 2015.
In a past statement, Snell expressed his feelings towards the team, saying, “I don’t want anything to do with [the Jets].” This estrangement did not diminish his contributions to the franchise, as he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2015.
Survived by his ex-wife, son, and daughter, Snell’s legacy will continue to resonate with Jets fans and the broader football community. Woody Johnson, owner of the Jets, remarked, “Matt Snell will forever hold a special place in the history of the New York Jets.”
Beau Snell, Matt’s son, reflected on his father’s impact, stating, “If the Jets don’t win that game, you don’t have the NFL you have today.” This highlights the importance of Snell’s contributions not just to the Jets, but to the league as a whole.
As the football community mourns his passing, details remain unconfirmed regarding any memorial services or tributes planned in his honor.
