Kyle Clifton was selected by the New York Jets in the third round (64th overall) of the 1984 NFL Draft. He spent his entire 13-year career with the Jets, appearing in 204 games (149 starts), the third-most in franchise history, and amassed 1,484 tackles, 5.5 sacks, 12 interceptions, 12 forced fumbles, and 15 fumble recoveries, establishing himself as one of the most productive linebackers in team history. Originally recruited by TCU as a quarterback, Clifton transitioned to linebacker and developed into a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense. In his final season in 1996, the organization introduced the Kyle Clifton “Good Guy” Award, presented annually by team staff, which continues to honor his legacy.
