NFL fans are mourning a beloved member of the New York Jets after fans and former players learned of his passing on Wednesday. Tributes are pouring in on social media for a legendary member of the “New York Sack Exchange” Abdul Salaam who passed at the age of 71.
NFL Fans Pay Tribute To Legendary Defender
Earlier on Wednesday the legend Salaam passed away after dealing with many health issues. He was a fundamental piece of the Jets defense from 1976 to 1983. He started 85 games for them and was a crucial piece to their historic defense. Many fans took to social media to pay tribute to a legendary man and player:
“Very sad news with the passing of former Jets great Abdul Salaam,” a Jets history account posted. “Abdul was a member of the New York Sack Exchange and helped being the Jets out of the dark ages of the 70s. Condolences to the family, friends & teammates of Abdul. May he rest in peace.”
“From one 74 to another 74, Rest In Peace,” Nick Mangold said.
“The New York Sack Exchange has lost a founding member today. Rest in peace, Abdul Salaam,” a user replied.
“Just got word this morning on the passing of a great man ‘soldier of peace’ @nyjets of the 1 & only ‘Sack Exchange,'” Connie Carberg shared. “From @KentState -1976 7th round pick #AbdulSalaam -so blessed to know him- my prayers for his family! He was the glue & meant so much.”
The Jets posted their short message on social media:
“Sending our love to the family & friends of Abdul Salaam,” the Jets wrote Wednesday on social media.
They added a published obituary with quotes from many of his teammates, who all had the most glowing and powerful remarks about Salaam. He was described as larger than life, and a voice of leadership:
“His name says it all: soldier of peace. That’s what he did. If there were any conflicts with the four of us, he was always that mediator who came in and resolved the problems,” Lyons said. “…. I think we’re all hurting today. We didn’t just lose a teammate, we lost a friend.”
The All-Pro lineman Mark Gastineau who played with Salaam for five years was heartbroken:
“I feel like I lost my best friend,” Gastineau told ESPN’s Rich Cimini. “If it wasn’t for Abdul, I wouldn’t have made it. He helped me through everything.”
From all of us at Gridiron, we send our condolences to Salaam’s family and friends for their loss.
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