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Most, if not all NFL teams have at least one “superfan.”
A “superfan” is someone who enthusiastically supports something, usually a sports team or musician, to such an extent that they become recognized for it, whether that be through a trademark outfit or their behavior. It’s really, however, just a polite way of saying “obsessed.”
The New York Jets’ superfan is “Fireman” Ed Anzalone, whose been going to Jets games since the late 1980s. “Fireman Ed” is known for being an actual retired firefighter and leading the team’s famed “J-E-T-S JETS JETS JETS!” chant.
Earlier this month, Anzalone took to social media to conspiracy theorize that the Jets are “phasing him out” and not putting him on the big screens.
“I’ve been getting a lot of emails and texts from fans about the Jet experience in the stadium with the big screens. Last night in particular — although on the Denver game also — last night in particular [the Jets] scored a touchdown and normally as a tradition we’re always put on the screen,” Anzalone said in an Instagram video.
“I don’t know exactly what’s going on, but they’re phasing us out. I’d like to know if somebody knows anything, please let me know, because it’s evident that it’s happening. And it needs to stop because we need home-field advantage. That’s what we have and we need to keep it going. Something is going on, so please let me know if you know something.”
Needless to say, the response from Jets fans, and sports fans in general, probably hasn’t been the one that Fireman Ed expected as many of the comments paint Anzalone as seeming entitled.
“Every single one of these super fans are awful. Legit think they’re part of the team and people are there to see them. Go away,” read a viral tweet in response to Anzalone’s complaint.
“Fireman Ed is easily the biggest loser in sports,” read another tweet.
“All of my friends who are Jets fans and myself find him extremely annoying. He also denounced the team not too long ago. Fans want to focus on watching football,” another comment read.
Fireman Ed when a 7 year old kid at his first Jets game ever is shown on the big screen instead of him pic.twitter.com/3e2RasdHSJ
— Blake (@blakenyjets) October 16, 2024
Fireman Ed and the MetLife Stadium crowd will next have the chance to cheer on Gang Green when they host the Houston Texans for Thursday Night Football on Halloween night.