They’re like us, but more awesome: NFL superfans

You have your regular NFL fans and then you have your passionate, costumed, face-covered-in-makeup NFL fanatics. 

New York Jets' superfan Ed Anzalone, otherwise known as "Fireman Ed," announced Monday that he was hanging up his helmet. Anzalone said he was stepping away because "confrontations with other Jets fans have become more common."

"Whether it’s in the stands, the bathroom or the parking lot, these confrontations are happening on a consistent basis," he said. "Although I can 'hold my own,' I do not want to lose my temper and make a stupid mistake. I have a responsibility to the families and kids that enjoy the game and Fireman Ed." 

Even though Fireman Ed never took a dime from the team, he was the unofficial spokesman of the team's fan base, often rallying fans with his "J-E-T-S, Jets, Jets, Jets" chants.

"I like Fireman Ed. If he could play at linebacker I'd use him," said Jets coach Rex Ryan after hearing about Ed's decision. "I like him. I don't know what to say; I do appreciate him."

Check out our gallery of other unofficial faces of NFL teams.