New York Jets

Exclusive interview with Curtis Martin

Published Jun. 30, 2017 6:28 p.m. ET

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Throughout his tenure, with the New York Jets, Pro Football Hall of Fame running back Curtis Martin left an impression worthy of greatness. He sits with me for The Jet Press to discuss his career, the upcoming season, and so much more.

The moment running back Curtis Martin was acquired by the New York Jets, one can immediately tell there was a certain aura about him on the gridiron. Though outwardly quiet and humble, there nonetheless burned an intense competitive spirit within which soon established him as a team leader.

Those qualities served Martin well. He seldom made it to the highlight shows, simply going about his business game after game, year after year. At the end of the green and white rainbow, Martin found himself in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Ring of Honor of the Jets, and with his jersey number retired. After football, he’s a key contributor to a number of charities. All of this while barely raising his voice above a low, deep rumble. Similar to his style on the field.

Below is an excerpt from the interview which you can listen to in its entirety below:

Hillary: Your Pro Football Hall of Fame speech still resonates and has been an inspiration for so many, myself included. How did you feel while you were in that moment?

Curtis: You know, it was kinda a surreal moment and part of me felt somewhat fearful. It wasn’t until I was walking towards the podium when I decided that I was not going to use any notes because I wanted to speak from the heart. I didn’t know how that was going to turn out, given the fact the Hall of Fame speech is one of the most important speeches I knew I would ever give, so it was just a lot on the line to take that type of risk. Fortunately, it turned out pretty well.

Hillary: I admire that so much. Let’s talk a little bit about your teammates with the Jets, who did you enjoy playing alongside with the most? And who have you kept in touch with over the years?

Curtis: It’s hard to say the most because I had a lot of guys who were my favorite guys. We had great times together. You have guys like Jerald Sowell who ended up being one of my best friends on the team. Richie Anderson, Vinny Testaverde; Vinny and I stay in touch. Same with Wayne Chrebet. I’m also in touch with Chad Pennington once in a while. Those are all my group of guys. We just always kept a relationship even after we were finished playing football.

I’d like to thank Curtis Martin for granting me an exclusive interview for The Jet Press. Please follow him on Twitter to keep up with everything he’s a part of. Here’s to another great season ahead for our beloved Jets!