Abdul Salaam, former New York Jets defensive tackle and key player in the famed “New York Sack Exchange,” has died at the age of 71. Born Larry Faulk, Salaam was celebrated for his part in one of the NFL’s most formidable defensive lines. His wife, Debbie, reported to ESPN that Salaam had been dealing with several health complications, including diabetes, before his death on October 8, 2024.
A seventh-round pick in the 1976 draft, Salaam initially faced difficulties in carving out his place in the NFL. This changed in 1981 when he joined forces with Joe Klecko, Mark Gastineau, and Marty Lyons to establish the “New York Sack Exchange.” This powerful quartet guided the Jets to a historic season, achieving a record 66 sacks and securing a playoff spot for the team for the first time since 1969.
Throughout his eight-year tenure with the Jets, Salaam was recognized for his exceptional performance and his soothing presence off-field. After converting to Islam and adopting a new name in 1977, he was affectionately known as the “Soldier of Peace” (the translation of Abdul Salaam) by his teammates. Mark Gastineau, a member of the Sack Exchange, spoke about Salaam’s significant influence on his life: “If it wasn’t for Abdul, I wouldn’t have made it. He helped me through everything.”
The “New York Sack Exchange” gained immense popularity in the early 1980s, with Salaam and his co-players earning broad acclaim. In a unique tribute, they were invited to ring the opening bell at the New York Stock Exchange in November 1981, reflecting their significant contributions to the city.
Post-retirement in 1983, Salaam returned to Cincinnati, Ohio, his place of birth, where he served as a coach and officer in the school district, molding young athletes. Salaam’s former teammate Marty Lyons reflected on his leadership, “He was well-respected in the locker room, loved by his teammates. His name said it all: Soldier of Peace.”
Salaam’s legacy as a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense lives on. In August, ESPN declared its approval of “The Sack Exchange” as a subject for its “30 for 30” documentary series. The Jets have recently incorporated elements from this distinguished era into their rebranding, further solidifying Salaam’s influence on the current team.
