Two of the New York Jets’ most iconic figures from the 1960s, linebacker Larry Grantham and wide receiver Art Powell, are advancing in the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Seniors selection process. Both players remain in contention for the Hall’s Class of 2025 after the Seniors Blue Ribbon Committee trimmed the list of candidates from 60 to 31.
Grantham, who passed away in 2017, was a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense and a pivotal figure in the team’s historic Super Bowl III victory. A lifelong Jet, Grantham played all 13 of his professional seasons in New York, becoming a five-time AFL All-Pro and AFL All-Star. His durability, leadership, and tenacity earned him a place in the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2011.
Powell, who died in 2015, was a standout wide receiver for the New York Titans (now Jets) from 1960-62, amassing 204 receptions for 3,178 yards and 27 touchdowns during his three seasons with the franchise. Often overshadowed by teammate Don Maynard, Powell’s stats prove he was a dominant force, and he helped establish the Titans as a competitive AFL team before later stints in Oakland, Buffalo, and Minnesota.
The next step in the Hall of Fame process will see the list narrowed to nine semifinalists in early December, with three Seniors advancing to the final round. Should Grantham or Powell make the final cut, they’ll be eligible for induction into the Hall of Fame Class of 2025, which will be decided before Super Bowl LIX in February.
