marty lyons

Marty Lyons has transitioned from a dominant NFL defensive lineman and Walter Payton Man of the Year recipient to a dedicated humanitarian, motivational speaker, and former radio analyst. After earning Consensus All-American honors in 1978 and leading the University of Alabama to a National Championship the same year, Marty Lyons was drafted by the New York Jets in the first round (14th overall) of the 1979 NFL Draft. As a collegiate athlete under Coach Bear Bryant, Lyons recorded 202 tackles and 6 forced fumbles for the Crimson Tide between 1975 and 1978, notably contributing to ‘The Goal Line Stand’ in the 1979 Sugar Bowl. During his tenure, Alabama maintained an impressive 31-5 record.

Lyons dedicated his entire professional playing career to the New York Jets, spending 11 seasons with the team. He became a crucial member of the formidable ‘New York Sack Exchange’ defensive line, alongside Mark Gastineau, Abdul Salaam, and Joe Klecko, which collectively achieved 66 sacks in 1981 and helped the Jets secure their first playoff appearance since 1969. Over his NFL career, Lyons played in 147 games, starting 135, and amassed 43.0 sacks. His commitment to community efforts was recognized with the prestigious Walter Payton Man of the Year Award in 1984, before his retirement from the NFL in 1989.

His collegiate football achievements were further honored with his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011. Beyond his executive and philanthropic roles, Lyons maintained a prominent presence in sports broadcasting, serving as a radio analyst for the New York Jets for 22 seasons from 2002 until his retirement from the role in 2023. He continues to be recognized for his enduring legacy, including his induction into the New York Jets Ring of Honor and multiple state halls of fame across the country.