Jake Gyllenhaal will play Joe Namath

"Initially rumored nearly two years ago, a recent update to Jake Gyllenhaal's IMDb filmography is finally confirming him as the actor chosen to portray the New York Jets' legendary quarterback.

The film is expected to follow Namath's life as one of the game's first true stars while transcending the sport to become the most recognizable face of American football.

Adapting Broadway Joe's story to the big screen will be David Hollander, most recently known for his work on A&E's critically-acclaimed drama The Cleaner. Mad Chance and Andrew Lazar will handle the production end of the film.
It's unknown where Gyllenhaal's portrayal of Namath will begin, especially given Joe Willie's numerous exploits in the early stages of his career. However, there are at least two logical starting points to properly introduce him to wider audiences.

The first of possible introductions could focus upon Namath's 1964 National Championship with the Alabama Crimson Tide under celebrated head coach Bear Bryant.
But the film has to be done right. Gyllenhaal's resemblance to the illustrious quarterback cannot be the driving force behind capturing Namath's essence for modern day movie-watchers.
A Joe Namath film has to do more than paint a picture of the league's first superstar quarterback.

For the sake and integrity of history, the New York Jets players and coaches surrounding Namath must be honored properly.
Outside of 2004's Friday Night Lights and portions of 1999's Any Given Sunday, football scenes employ too much slow-motion as the primary tactic for building on-field drama. Those two films managed to bring the bone-crunching grittiness of the gridiron to life.


Most importantly—and it doesn't matter how it's done—Mr. Hollander must find a way to incorporate Namath's Noxzema commercial with the late Farrah Fawcett into the story".

Source: bleacherreport.com