Derrick Gaffney was a wide receiver for the New York Jets in the 1970s and ‘80s.
- Died: March 17, 2025 (Who else died on March 17?)
- Details of death: Died at the age of 69.
- We invite you to share condolences for Derrick Gaffney in our Guest Book.
Derrick Gaffney’s legacy
Born in Jacksonville, Florida, Gaffney stayed in his home state for an illustrious college football career. He attended the University of Florida, where he set a record for the Gators that still stands today. In 1977, he caught a 99-yard pass, tying the NCAA record and setting a long-standing record for the Southeastern Conference.
Gaffney was chosen by the Jets in the eighth round of the 1978 NFL draft. He had a solid rookie season, catching 38 passes for 691 yards. It proved to be his best year. He remained with the Jets through 1984, then returned as a free agent in 1987 for two games during a players’ strike. Gaffney’s entire NFL career was spent with the Jets.
Gaffney’s NFL legacy carried on with his son, wide receiver Jabar Gaffney, who followed in his father’s footsteps at the University of Florida before signing with the Houston Texans in 2002.
Tributes to Derrick Gaffney
Full obituary: New York Jets
