Ben 
The New York Jets stood alone in NFL history during Pope Francis’ reign. From 2013 to 2025, while Pope Francis led 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide, 31 NFL teams experienced playoff glory.
Only the Jets remained in football purgatory. Through 12 seasons, the Jets watched as every other franchise tasted postseason football. The Buffalo Bills made 10 straight playoff appearances. The Miami Dolphins broke through with Tua. Even the Patriots rebuilt after Brady and found their way back.
The Jets cycled through 8 head coaches, 12 starting quarterbacks, and countless “franchise saviors.” Their playoff drought stretched to 14 painful years. The faithful at MetLife Stadium prayed for divine intervention that never came.
While Pope Francis “blessed” billions globally, no amount of holy water could wash away the Jets’ curse. The numbers tell a story of biblical suffering – 168 regular season games without meaningful January football. Other cursed franchises found redemption during this span – the Browns, Lions, and Jaguars all made playoff runs.
The Jets remained in their own special circle of NFL hell. When Pope Francis passed in 2025, he left a legacy of mercy, humility and grace. The Jets left only disappointment, despair and an NFL record for futility. Some say the Jets need a miracle. Others say they need competent ownership, management and coaching.
But after being the only team to miss the playoffs during an entire Pope’s reign, maybe they need both. Their drought stands as testament to just how hard it is to maintain such a remarkable level of failure in the parity-driven NFL.
