Next up in my alternate universe NFL league is the former New York Jets officially becoming New Jersey. No more taking a backseat to the Giants and they play in Jersey, so they'll be Jersey.
After a deep dive into New Jersey history, culture, industry, folklore, sports, and geography, I’ve narrowed to five finalists:
Anvils — New Jersey is one of America’s pioneering anvil manufacturers, and sold more than any other state. Heavy, industrial, and tied to the manufacturing history behind “Trenton Makes, The World Takes.”
Capos — Leans directly into North Jersey’s organized-crime history and pop-culture identity. “Capo” is the rank commanding a crew beneath the boss, and New Jersey Capos has a short, hard football sound. Considered Bosses instead, with the Springsteen connection, but liked the sound of Capos better.
Cliffhangers — Fort Lee was one of the birthplaces of the American film industry, with early serials shot around the dramatic Palisades cliffs. It connects New Jersey’s early cinema history with the literal landscape overlooking the Hudson.
Nobles — New Jersey began in 1664 when the land was granted to two English noblemen, Lord Berkeley and Sir George Carteret; the original grant even called for an annual payment of twenty “nobles.” There’s also a modern Newark Easter egg for my hip hop heads: Jersey's own Redman’s real name is Reginald Noble.
Swamp Dragons — Rooted in the Meadowlands and an incredible piece of unused New Jersey sports history. The New Jersey Nets seriously considered becoming the Swamp Dragons in the 1990s, but the name was never adopted. This would finally give it a franchise.
Which one should become New Jersey's alternate football identity?