Abdul Salaam (American football) facts for kids
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| Position: | Defensive tackle | ||||
| Personal information | |||||
| Born: | August 12, 1953 New Brockton, Alabama, U.S. |
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| Died: | October 8, 2024 (aged 71) | ||||
| Height: | 6 ft 3 in (1.91 m) | ||||
| Weight: | 262 lb (119 kg) | ||||
| Career information | |||||
| High school: | Woodward (OH) | ||||
| College: | Kent State | ||||
| NFL Draft: | 1976 / Round: 7 / Pick: 188 | ||||
| Career history | |||||
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| Player stats at PFR | |||||
Abdul Salaam (born Larry Faulk; August 12, 1953 – October 8, 2024) was a talented American football player. He is best known for his time as a defensive tackle with the New York Jets. He was a key part of their famous defensive line, called the "New York Sack Exchange." A defensive tackle is a player who tries to stop the other team's offense and tackle the quarterback.
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Early Life and College Football
Abdul Salaam grew up in Cincinnati, Ohio. He played many sports at Woodward High School. He was good at baseball, basketball, and American football.
After high school, he went to Kent State University. He studied business there. He also played football for the Kent State team. He played as a nose guard and Linebacker. He was so good that he was named to the All-Mid-American Conference team three years in a row.
Becoming a Professional Player
The New York Jets picked Abdul Salaam in the 1976 NFL draft. At that time, his name was Larry Faulk. In 1977, he changed his name to Abdul Salaam. This name means "soldier of peace," and he chose it because he wanted peace in his life.
His first two seasons with the Jets were tough. But soon, he joined three other amazing players. These were Joe Klecko, Mark Gastineau, and Marty Lyons. Together, they formed one of the best defensive lines in the National Football League.
The New York Sack Exchange
This powerful group of players became known as the "New York Sack Exchange." They were famous for tackling the opposing team's quarterback. This is called a "sack." In 1981, the four players made 66 sacks together. Their strong play helped the Jets reach the playoffs for the first time in many years.
Their nickname was inspired by the New York Stock Exchange. In November 1981, Salaam and his teammates were even invited to ring the opening bell there.
The Jets made the playoffs again in 1982. They played well but lost the AFC Championship game to the Miami Dolphins. Abdul Salaam played his last game for the Jets in 1983. After that season, he was traded to the San Diego Chargers. However, he did not play any games for his new team.
Later Life
Abdul Salaam passed away on October 8, 2024. He was 71 years old. He is remembered as an important part of the New York Jets' history.
