1981 New York Jets season

It began with the team trying to improve upon its 4–12 record from 1980 under head coach Walt Michaels.

The Jets sputtered early, starting 0–3 and (combined with the previous season's 4–12 finish) fueling a quarterback controversy and altercation between quarterback Richard Todd and sports writer Steve Serby and speculation about Michaels’ job.

The team ultimately finished the season with a record of 10–5–1 and qualified for the playoffs for the first time since 1969, breaking a twelve-season drought.

Running backs (RB) Wide receivers (WR) Tight ends (TE) Defensive linemen (DL) Defensive backs (DB) Special teams Reserve at Municipal Stadium • Cleveland, Ohio

TV Announcers (NBC): Charlie Jones, Len Dawson at Shea Stadium, Flushing, Queens, New York