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Namath was selected by the New York Jets with the 12th overall pick in the 1965 AFL Draft. He chose to sign with the Jets, spurning offers from NFL teams, including the St. Louis Cardinals. Namath's decision was a significant moment in professional football history as it signaled the growing competitiveness between the AFL and NFL.

Namath made an immediate impact in the AFL, leading the New York Jets to success and gaining a reputation as one of the league's premier quarterbacks. In 1969, Namath famously guaranteed victory in Super Bowl III against the heavily favored NFL champion Baltimore Colts. Against all odds, Namath and the Jets delivered on his guarantee, securing a historic 16-7 victory. This game is often cited as one of the most significant upsets in NFL history.

After twelve years with the Jets, Namath was waived prior to the 1977 season to facilitate a move to the Los Angeles Rams when a trade could not be worked out. Signing on May 12, Namath hoped to revitalize his career, but knee injuries, a bad hamstring, and the general ravages of 13 years as a quarterback in professional football had taken their toll. After playing well in a 2–1 start, Namath took a beating in a one-point road loss on a cold, windy, and rainy Monday Night Football game against the Chicago Bears, throwing four interceptions and having a fifth nullified by a penalty. He was benched as a starter for the rest of the season (in favor of Pat Haden) and retired at its end.

He was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1985.

Offered is a gorgeous original TYPE 1 snapshot photo of Namath that measures 3-1/2" x 4-7/8" in size. Period Kodak markings on the back of the photo. Stamped on the back August 1977 taken a training camp.

One of a kind very rare shot (not many original photos of Hollywood Joe in Rams uniform)