Nose to Nose: Survival in the Trenches of the NFL

Two former teammates and New York Jets football stars offer their unique "insiders" viewpoint of life in the NFL, with particular attention paid to the price of athletic fame and glory

Until recently Klecko and Fields were linemen for the New York Jets, Klecko on defense for 11 years and Fields on offense for 13. Both were from blue-collar backgrounds and attended colleges that were not football powers, Temple and Widener, respectively. They came into the pro game at a time when salaries were low and learned to play while injured out of fear that their temporary replacements would become permanent. Writing with News day (N.Y.) reporter Logan they show how they helped to mold the team. Their authority was eroded in 1987, however, when both, initially supporters of the players strike, crossed the picket line. Each was released at the end of the season. The book should cause something of a stir because both players admit to having used steroids and the more outspoken Klecko comments negatively about ex-teammate Mark Gastineau and coach Joe Walton. Photos not seen by PW.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Klecko, a defensive lineman who was an integral part of the New York Jets "Sack Exchange" in the early 1980s, and Joe Fields, the Jets all-pro center, tell their stories in this dual "autobiography," written in the third person with sportswriter Greg Logan. The two have much in common. Both are from blue-collar families, and their background translated into a solid work ethic on the Jets. Jets head coach Joe Walton's tirades and defensive lineman Mark Gastineau's spoiled-brat antics made Klecko and Fields's last years with the Jets uncomfortable. Both men played hurt throughout their careers, and Klecko's dismissal at the end of the 1986 season following knee surgery seems unwarranted. Neither was a supporter of the 1987 NFL players' strike, and both crossed the picket lines. They offer thoughtful comments on the strike, which resulted in sharp divisions among the players. Recommended for public libraries.
- Sue Kamm, Los Angeles P.L.
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.