Abdul Salaam, former defensive tackle for the New York Jets and a key part of the team’s renowned “New York Sack Exchange,” has passed away at 71, his wife, Debbie, confirmed to ESPN on Wednesday. Salaam had been facing multiple health complications, including diabetes.
Salaam was a dominant presence on the Jets’ defensive line for eight seasons, from 1976 to 1983. He played alongside teammates Mark Gastineau, Joe Klecko, and Marty Lyons, helping form one of the most formidable defensive fronts in the NFL during that era.
His contributions to the team, especially as part of the legendary “Sack Exchange,” left a lasting impact on Jets history.
So sorry to read this. The Sack Exchange was a major reason why I became a #Jets fan, and Abdul Salaam was its unsung hero, solid as a rock on the inside. Sincere condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and fans. A great Jet. #RIPAbdulSalaam https://t.co/OZHNfR4x9A
— Dave Bismo (@DaveBismo) October 9, 2024
Who was Abdul Salaam?
The iconic “New York Sack Exchange” lineup—consisting of Abdul Salaam, Mark Gastineau, Joe Klecko, and Marty Lyons—first came together in 1979, playing alongside each other for five seasons. The famous nickname for the Jets’ defensive front was reportedly coined in 1981, the same year they became a feared force in the NFL.
Abdul Salaam, originally known as Larry Falk, was selected by the Jets in the seventh round of the 1976 NFL Draft out of Kent State. In 1977, he changed his name to Abdul Salaam, which translates to “soldier of peace,” a name that would define his legacy both on and off the field.
Reflecting on his draft experience, Salaam once shared with the Jets in a 2019 interview, “We had a celebration after the Jets drafted me. I thought Cleveland would (choose me because of its proximity to Kent State).” Despite his expectations, he found a home with the Jets and became an integral part of the team’s history.
Abdul Salaam initially played as a reserve during his rookie season but quickly earned a starting role for the New York Jets, holding that position for the next five years. His steady presence on the defensive line helped shape the team’s resurgence in the early 1980s.
The Jets’ defensive line, nicknamed the “New York Sack Exchange,” truly made its mark during the 1981 season when the team led the NFL with 66 sacks. That season, the Jets finished with a 10-5-1 record, reaching the playoffs but losing to the Buffalo Bills in the Wild Card round. It was a breakout year for the team and its fearsome defensive unit.
Salaam reflected on the key to their success in an interview with the Jets, saying, “We made the adjustments and learned very quickly. That’s why we were successful. I went from defensive end to tackle, and we had great help bringing Marty and Mark in.” He compared playing in the NFL trenches to a heavyweight fight, adding, “It was like a coldblooded struggle. You had to stay up on your feet and keep going.”
Just got word this morning on passing of a great man “soldier of peace” @nyjets of the 1 & only “Sack Exchange” From @KentState -1976 7th round pick #AbdulSalaam -so blessed to know him- my prayers for his family! He was the glue & meant so much.🙏🙏🙏#Jets pic.twitter.com/h7oiPdTBrn
— Connie Carberg (@ConnieScouts) October 9, 2024
Salaam’s ability to adapt, alongside the chemistry he had with his teammates, helped make the New York Sack Exchange one of the most dominant defensive lines in the league’s history. The Jets made a playoff appearance again in 1982 during Salaam’s last full season with the team, but they were defeated by the Miami Dolphins in the AFC Championship game. After that season, Salaam played only one more game in 1983 before leaving the Jets.
In 1984, he was acquired by the San Diego Chargers, but he never saw action on the field with the team. Throughout his career, Salaam participated in 97 games and recorded a total of 21 sacks, showcasing his effectiveness as a defensive lineman during his time in the NFL. His contributions to the game and the legacy he left with the Jets remain a significant part of the franchise’s history.
“He was highly regarded in the locker room and cherished by his teammates,” Lyons shared with ESPN. “His name truly reflected who he was: Soldier of Peace. He had a gentle demeanor but played a crucial role in our success.”
Gastineau echoed similar sentiments, expressing how instrumental Salaam was in his own career. “I feel as though I’ve lost my best friend,” he stated. “Without Abdul, I don’t think I would have made it to the Hall of Fame. He was there for me every step of the way.”
