Top Wide Receivers in New York Jets History
The New York Jets’ Rich Legacy at Wide Receiver
Although the Jets have faced offensive struggles throughout their history, they’ve produced some truly exceptional wide receivers. Here’s a ranking of the top five greatest receivers in Jets history, along with honorable mentions.
Honorable Mention 1: Brandon Marshall
Despite only two seasons with the Jets, Brandon Marshall’s 2015 campaign is one of the greatest in franchise history. Acquired just before the 2015 season, Marshall delivered 1,502 receiving yards on 108 catches with 14 touchdowns—a franchise single-season record for receptions and yards, with his 14 touchdowns tied for the most in Jets history. While his 2016 season didn’t match those heights, Marshall’s impact during his short tenure was unforgettable.
Honorable Mention 2: Keyshawn Johnson
The first overall pick in the 1996 NFL Draft, Keyshawn Johnson quickly became one of the Jets’ most talented receivers. Over four seasons, he amassed 305 receptions for 4,108 yards and 31 touchdowns while earning two Pro Bowl nods. Johnson’s time with the Jets ended prematurely when he was traded to Tampa Bay in 2000, but his contributions during his brief tenure remain noteworthy.
Honorable Mention 3: Jerricho Cotchery
A model of consistency and reliability, Jerricho Cotchery flew under the radar but always delivered. Selected in the fourth round of the 2004 NFL Draft, Cotchery led the Jets in receiving yards from 2007 to 2009. Though he never made a Pro Bowl, his toughness and dependability made him a fan favorite.
5. Laveranues Coles
Drafted in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft, Laveranues Coles quickly made his mark. His breakout 2002 season saw him catch 89 passes for 1,264 yards and five touchdowns. After a brief stint with Washington, Coles returned to the Jets in 2005 and led the team in receptions, yards, and touchdowns from 2005 to 2008.
In total, Coles recorded 5,941 receiving yards during his seven years with the Jets, ranking fifth in franchise history. Known for his big-play ability and consistent production, Coles will always be remembered as a game-changer for Gang Green.
Stay tuned for the top four greatest Jets wide receivers!
4. Al Toon
Al Toon’s career was tragically impacted by injuries, but despite that, he made every effort to overcome them. Drafted 10th overall in the 1985 NFL Draft, Toon quickly emerged as one of the league’s top receivers. In just his second season, Toon earned his first Pro Bowl selection at the age of 23, recording 85 receptions for 1,176 yards and 8 touchdowns.
He would make two more Pro Bowls, and in 1988, he led the NFL with 93 receptions. Over his eight seasons with the Jets, Toon accumulated 517 catches, 6,605 yards, and 31 touchdowns despite missing 27 games due to injuries. Unfortunately, Toon suffered nine concussions throughout his career.
Had Toon remained healthy, he could have been one of the greatest wide receivers of all time. Nonetheless, Jets fans will always remember his exceptional contributions to the team.
3. Wayne Chrebet
Wayne Chrebet is undoubtedly one of the most beloved players in Jets history. A New Jersey native, Chrebet was signed by the Jets as an undrafted free agent out of Hofstra in 1995. He immediately earned a roster spot and became a fan favorite for his gritty, reliable play, particularly on third downs and in the slot.
Chrebet played 11 seasons with the Jets, recording 580 receptions for 7,365 yards and 41 touchdowns. He ranks second in franchise history in receptions, third in receiving yards, and third in receiving touchdowns. Chrebet will always be remembered as a Jets legend for his heart, hustle, and impact on the field.
2. Wesley Walker
Wesley Walker is one of the most electrifying receivers in Jets history. Despite being legally blind in his left eye, Walker was drafted in the second round of the 1977 NFL Draft and quickly became one of the league’s premier deep threats.
From 1977 to 1986, Walker ranked third in the NFL in receiving touchdowns (63) and seventh in receiving yards (7,476). Over his 13-year career with the Jets, Walker averaged 19.0 yards per reception—still a franchise record for players with at least 20 receptions.
In total, Walker recorded 438 receptions, 8,306 yards, and 71 touchdowns. He ranks second in Jets history in receiving yards and touchdowns and fifth in receptions. His inspiring story of overcoming adversity makes his place among the franchise’s greatest even more remarkable.
1. Don Maynard
Don Maynard is the greatest receiver in Jets history and one of the most iconic players in franchise lore. Maynard was signed by the New York Titans in 1960 and quickly made an impact, recording 1,265 yards and six touchdowns on 72 catches in his debut season.
Maynard spent 13 seasons with the team, finishing with 627 receptions, 11,732 yards, and 88 touchdowns—still franchise records today. He was a key contributor to the Jets’ lone Super Bowl win. While he didn’t record a reception in Super Bowl III due to a hamstring injury, his remarkable 1968 season was crucial in getting the team to that point.
That year, Maynard was named a first-team All-Pro after catching 57 passes for 1,297 yards and 10 touchdowns. He led the AFL in yards per reception (22.8) and receiving yards per game (99.8). Over 50 years after his last game with the Jets, Maynard remains the undisputed greatest wide receiver in franchise history.
Source: https://forums.jetnation.com/topic/181291-greatest-wrs-in-jets-history/
