Asked what was the hardest hit he ever received during a game Curtis Martin recalled a time while playing for the Patriots when Marvin Jones of the New York Jets squared up on him helmet to helmet on a goal line stand. The hit literally bent his face mask and crushed the cheese packs (for those who've never played football these are the little square cushions in the Riddell helmets that are virtually indestructible) in the front of his helmet. Curtis ran the same call for a touchdown on the next play. The guy is simply as tough as they come. He's missed only 4 games in his 11 year career is fourth in career rushing yards with 13,336 and still going at the age of 32. He led the league in rushing last year with nearly 1700 yards while averaging over 4.6 yards a carry. He's the consummate professional on and off the field. And though to be honest he's not even the most skilled back to wear a Jets uniform he's easily one of the greatest backs to play the game. He's akin to the fighter who keeps coming at you round after round plugging away regardless of the beating he's taking. In the end Curtis will just wear you down.
