What is mark gastineau?

Here's some information about Mark Gastineau:

• Mark Gastineau (born November 20, 1956) is a former American professional <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/football">football</a> player.

• He played as a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/defensive%20end">defensive end</a> in the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/National%20Football%20League">National Football League</a> (NFL) for the <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/New%20York%20Jets">New York Jets</a> from 1979 to 1988.

• Gastineau was a key member of the "New York Sack Exchange," a dominant defensive line that also included Joe Klecko, Marty Lyons, and Abdul Salaam. The group famously trademarked their name.

• He was a five-time <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/Pro%20Bowl">Pro Bowl</a> selection (1981-1985) and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 1981 and 1982.

• In 1981, Gastineau set an NFL single-season sack record with 20 sacks. Although that record has since been surpassed, it was a significant achievement at the time. Sacks only became an official statistic in 1982.

• His career ended abruptly when he retired during the 1988 season to care for his girlfriend, actress Brigitte Nielsen, who was battling cancer. (While this was the stated reason, some reports suggested other factors were involved).

• Following his NFL career, Gastineau pursued other ventures, including a brief stint as a <a href="https://www.wikiwhat.page/kavramlar/professional%20boxer">professional boxer</a>.

• In later years, he faced legal issues and personal struggles. He has also spoken publicly about his faith and his efforts to turn his life around.