I was saddened to read today that former jet Richard Caster recently passed away. One of my favorite all time jets. Old goats like me remember the 70s jets when Namath and Caster hooked up early and often. In 1972, the jets played the heavily favored colts in Baltimore the 2nd game of the season. I recall the jets won 44-34. Namath threw 6 TDs that day (Bell, Riggins, Maynard, and 3 to Caster). Howard Cosell of ABC Sports liked to say that Caster was so fast he had an "antelope" stride.
First game I ever went to at Shea he tossed his chinstrap into the crowd after the win and I came away with it. I was probably eight or nine. RIP.
He was probably one of the first, if not the first graceful, athletic TEs, after starting his career as a WR. RIP #88!
I was there as well. You always looked forward to seeing him downfield when Namath bought time to make the throw.
That really sucks! Namath said that Caster is one of his favorite targets, Caster is the greatest tight end in Jets history and Shuler is very close behind Caster! Rest in peace Caster
I credit (or blame) this game for turning me into a Pro Football/ NY Jets fan. Thank you Rich Caster. You were an all-time NY Jet.
I recall a game where you couldn't see joe because of the blocking, they were like on the 5 yard line. Joe takes the snak back peddles and lofts a bmb to Caster for like 50 yards... it was beatiful. RIP Rich, you were #1 TE for me.
Loved RC. Namath to Caster was one of the bright spots in some lean years. He was a frustrating player at times - he would make an incredible catch, then drop an easy ball right in his hands. RIP
