Frank Ramos, a cornerstone of the New York Jets organization for nearly four decades, has passed away at the age of 87. The team announced his death this week, marking the end of a remarkable legacy that spanned some of the most pivotal moments in franchise history.
Ramos, who served as the Jets’ head of Public Relations from 1963 to 2002, died Tuesday in hospice care in South Florida following a bout of pneumonia. While his name may not have been front and center for fans on Sundays, his impact behind the scenes was immense - and deeply felt by those who knew the inner workings of the NFL.
He joined the organization the same year it rebranded from the New York Titans to the New York Jets, and from that point on, Ramos became one of the team's most enduring figures. Over 39 years, he worked under seven different owners, five general managers, 11 full-time head coaches, and two interim coaches.
Through all of it, Ramos never missed a game - not one. He was on the job for 681 consecutive contests, including 486 regular-season games, 14 postseason matchups, and 181 preseason tilts.
That kind of consistency is rare in any profession, let alone in the high-pressure world of pro football.
To put that into perspective, the Jets have only made five playoff appearances since Ramos retired in 2002. But during his tenure, he was there for the franchise's highest of highs - including the legendary Super Bowl III upset over the Baltimore Colts, led by none other than Joe Namath. Ramos wasn’t just a witness to history; he was part of the fabric that helped hold the organization together through decades of change.
Following the news of his passing, tributes poured in from across the league. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell called Ramos "a trusted confidant of the players, coaches, and executives," praising his professionalism and the relationships he built over the years.
“Frank was the consummate communications professional, always dispensing sound counsel with a kind touch,” Goodell said. “He was a terrific friend and influence to those of us fortunate enough to be in his orbit, and he will be greatly missed.”
Jets owner Woody Johnson and Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath also honored Ramos, each pointing to his steady presence and deep commitment to the franchise. In 2024, Ramos was recognized with the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Award of Excellence - a fitting tribute for a man who helped shape the public voice of the Jets for nearly 40 years. That award is reserved for individuals who’ve made significant, lasting contributions to the game beyond the field.
At the time of his retirement, Ramos held the distinction of being the longest-tenured public relations official across all New York sports teams - a testament not only to his longevity, but to the respect he earned across the league.
Frank Ramos may not have thrown touchdowns or made tackles, but he was as much a part of the Jets' identity as any player who’s worn the green and white. His legacy is one of loyalty, professionalism, and quiet excellence - the kind that doesn't always make headlines, but leaves a lasting mark on a franchise and the people within it.