The familiar voice from the Jets radio booth won’t be heard this season.
Marty Lyons, who has been the Jets’ radio commentator for 22 years, will step down from the microphone and hand the headphones over to former Jets tight end Anthony Becht, the team announced Thursday.
Lyons will remain involved with the organization as an ambassador, supporting it with business partnerships and appearing on Jets digital and broadcast programming.
The former defensive lineman began his career in the radio booth alongside play-by-play announcer Bob Wischusen in 2002 and was a partner for more than 20 years.
“I want to thank the entire staff at the station for 22 amazing years, including producer Joe Laughran, the on-field staff, Dave Shapiro, Richie Providence and my personal spotter Mike Altieri, who did a fantastic job. I also want to thank Bob Wischusen, who was the best partner I’ve had at the station,” Lyons said in a statement. “I couldn’t have asked for a better partner. Bobby, you’re the best. I want to thank all of the New York Jets fans for their support and loyalty over the years, not only to me, but to the kids at the Marty Lyons Foundation. Lastly, I want to thank the New York Jets organization.”
“Especially Woody and Chris Johnson. It’s an honor for me to serve the organization in this new role. Best of luck to my friend Anthony Becht. You’re in good hands. Have a great season.”
The 67-year-old made his name as a defensive lineman with the legendary New York Sac Exchange Jets from 1979-1989.
Lyons was inducted into the Jets’ Ring of Honor in 2013.
Becht played the first five seasons of his NFL career with the Jets from 2000-2011 and also has experience as a television analyst for college and professional football.
He participated in the Jets’ preseason broadcasts on CBS 2.
Beck also served as head coach of the UFL’s St. Louis BattleHawks the past two seasons.
The former tight end will remain as head coach.
“I am incredibly grateful to the New York Jets organization for once again providing me with the opportunity of a lifetime,” Becht said in a statement. “This team has had a special place in my life since the day I was drafted and I look forward to expressing my gratitude through my work in this new role. Having the opportunity to work with a first-class organization and a top-notch radio crew led by longtime radio professional Bob Wischusen is the perfect environment for me to hit the ground running and uphold the standard that Marty Lyons has set over the past 22 years.”
According to the announcement, Becht’s first game in the booth will be against the Giants on Aug. 24.
Former Jets receiver Quincy Enunwa will be featured as a commentator in this weekend’s preseason game against the Commanders.
The changes in the booth aren’t the only changes to Jets radio broadcasts this season.
This year marks the start of a new deal that will see Jets games that previously aired on ESPN New York be broadcast on Q104.3-FM.
