What a different world back then. Sonny Werblin signed Namath for $427,000, which was an unheard-of sum in those days. Werblin appreciated Namath's star power as much as his football talent. There was a bit of a delay before the introductory press conference at the 21 Club, and the team physician (Dr. Nicholas) decided to give Namath's knees a quick exam. Prior to the signing, they had done no medical examination. Dr. Nicholas almost pooped his drawers when he did the exam. Namath's bad knee was so unstable that Nicholas told him that he would have recommended the Jets stay away from Namath if he had known how bad his knee was. Can you imagine drafting and signing a top pick nowadays with absolutely no medical exam beforehand?
Then doing a quick exam in the bathroom after the deal was signed? Very different time. Also Joe was so huge, just stealing him from the NFL, even if he was limited by the knee was enough of a win. It was more about the league trying to make itself known as a force to be reckoned with. The NFL even seriously considered giving his draft rights to the a Giants thinking it was a NYC vs StL thing.
To me he is the patron saint of the Jets. He can do no wrong. Ever. To me he is above the pope and christ himself
One of my favorites - there's another I can't find where he's more vertical and is wearing the whites...
So, is Namath going to be 76 tomorrow? Like, is he 75 now? And will there be a new thread tomorrow wishing him happy birthday?
