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 passing.
Snell’s football career spanned nine years with the Jets, where he became a prominent figure in the team’s history. He was recognized as the AFL Rookie of the Year in 1964 and went on to earn three Pro Bowl selections and one All-Pro selection during his career.
Throughout his time in the NFL, Snell rushed for a total of 4,285 yards and scored 24 touchdowns. His most notable performance came during Super Bowl III, where he scored the only touchdown for the Jets, rushing for 121 yards against the Baltimore Colts. This game is often cited as one of the most significant in professional football history.
Snell was a first-round pick in the 1964 AFL draft, marking the beginning of a successful career that would leave a lasting impact on the Jets organization. However, following his retirement, Snell became estranged from the Jets due to a grudge against the organization, famously stating, “I don’t want anything to do with [the Jets].”
In 2015, he was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor but chose to skip the induction ceremony, reflecting his complicated relationship with the team. Despite this estrangement, Jets owner Woody Johnson remarked, “Matt Snell will forever hold a special place in the history of the New York Jets.”
Snell is survived by his ex-wife, son, and daughter. His son, Beau Snell, noted the significance of his father’s contributions, stating, “If the Jets don’t win that game, you don’t have the NFL you have today.”
As fans and former teammates reflect on Snell’s legacy, his achievements and the impact he had on the game will be remembered by many. His performance in Super Bowl III remains a highlight in Jets history and a pivotal moment in the evolution of the NFL.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding any memorial services or tributes planned in his honor.