Richard Caster was a 13-year NFL veteran who went to three Pro Bowls as a New York Jet.
- Died: February 2, 2024 (Who else died on February 2?)
- Details of death: Died from complications of Parkinson’s disease in Long Island, New York, at the age of 75.
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Richard Caster’s legacy
Caster was a star athlete at L.B. Williamson High in Mobile, Alabama, and wanted to play college ball for the University of Alabama, but the college did not allow Black players on its team at the time. Caster instead went to Jackson State. He was a standout player, receiving for over 3,600 yards and 28 touchdowns, and in 1970 was a second-round draft pick of the New York Jets.
Caster was almost immediately a starter and paired well with Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Namath. When he was moved from wide receiver to tight end, his career took off. Caster was a Pro Bowl selection in three out of four years (1972, 1974, and 1975) and put-up big numbers with the team. His 4,434 yards receiving is still 10th on the team’s all-time list. His 60-yard run against Washington in 1976 is the longest rush by a tight end in Jets history.
Caster left the Jets after the 1977 season, playing short stints in Houston, New Orleans, and Washington before retiring. When not playing, he was involved with local organizations such as the Bronx Boys Club, the New York Urban League, and the March of Dimes. After retirement, he worked as an assistant coach and minority enrollment advisor at Rye Country Day and Greenwich Country Day.
Tributes to Richard Caster
Full obituary: Newyorkjets.com
