Defensive Tackle
No. 81
Southern
"A starter at right defensive end for eight games last year, sharing the role with Mark Lomas, Neal came on with an outstanding second half of the year after having a weight problem early in the season. He tied with Lomas and Carl Barzilauskas for the team leadership in sacks with five. Richard had four of his dumps in the last three games as the Jets ran their winning streak to six.
In 1973 he played three of the four defensive line positions before settling in at right tackle. Richard has missed only two games in his entire career (a knee injury in 1970) and now has 82 to his credit, 68 consecutively. He was a regular defensive tackle for New Orleans and was their captain in 1972. Neal originally was a No. 2 draft pick of New Orleans (1969) and came to the Jets in a trade in January 1973 along with Delles Howell for a No. 2 and a No. 3 draft pick.
Neal has a B.A. in political science. His hometown is Shreveport, Louisiana."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
1975 Profile: Mark Lomas
Defensive End
No. 84
Northern Arizona
"Lomas has led or tied for the team lead in quarterback sacks for the last three years from his end position. He had five dumps in '74 for a tie for the lead, and owned the top spot exclusively in '73 with 10 and in '72 with eight. He started seven of the 11 games he played in 1974, all at right end.
He had his season cut short when he suffered a strained right Achilles tendon against Miami at Shea and was in a cast for the rest of the year. Mark aggravated the same injury playing tennis in the off-season and will have to recuperate from that damage.
Drafted 8th in 1970, Mark has a good pass rush and has now made better adjustments against the running plays to his side. He had a memorable game against Baltimore in 1972 when he dumped Johnny Unitas three times and then recovered a fumble in the rematch to set up a touchdown.
Lomas is a believer in health foods and makes his own concoctions. He's also a strong advocate of stretching exercises, which many of the Jets now use. His hometown is Garden Grove, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 84
Northern Arizona
"Lomas has led or tied for the team lead in quarterback sacks for the last three years from his end position. He had five dumps in '74 for a tie for the lead, and owned the top spot exclusively in '73 with 10 and in '72 with eight. He started seven of the 11 games he played in 1974, all at right end.
He had his season cut short when he suffered a strained right Achilles tendon against Miami at Shea and was in a cast for the rest of the year. Mark aggravated the same injury playing tennis in the off-season and will have to recuperate from that damage.
Drafted 8th in 1970, Mark has a good pass rush and has now made better adjustments against the running plays to his side. He had a memorable game against Baltimore in 1972 when he dumped Johnny Unitas three times and then recovered a fumble in the rematch to set up a touchdown.
Lomas is a believer in health foods and makes his own concoctions. He's also a strong advocate of stretching exercises, which many of the Jets now use. His hometown is Garden Grove, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Sunday, June 28, 2015
1975 Profile: Carl Barzilauskas
Defensive Tackle
No. 77
Indiana
"He was something else. He towered over everybody in the room. They certainly don't come much bigger. Not when you're 6-6 and weigh 280 pounds. Yet, he stood there a bit uncomfortable. It all seemed strange to him. Answering questions before the New York writers was something new. He never experienced it before. Not in Waterbury, Connecticut or Bloomington, Indiana. But he was something special. Everyone who attended the press conference at the posh 21 Club could sense it. Such a setting is only reserved for super stars or a number one draft choice. And last spring Carl Barzilauskas was only a number.
But that was a year ago. Suddenly, Barzilauskas is something more. His rookie year disclosed that. He started every game at defensive tackle. And he was tested time after time. He was double-teamed and often triple-teamed. Yet, all the while he learned. He learned so well that he was almost named Rookie of the Year. More important, Barzilauskas is looked upon as a future super star, which is the way the Jets figured it all along.
It took a lot of figuring, too. Barzo, as he is known to his teammates, didn't have the greatest of years his final season at Indiana University. But there was a reason. Barzilauskas played all season long on a broken foot. He wouldn't quit. That more than anything else impressed the Jets. That and the obvious fact that he was big and strong. He had that much going for him. He certainly didn't get much recognition. That doesn't come easy when you're exposed to three years of losing football. It can get awfully frustrating.
NFL coaches and players, however, were the most frustrated. Tommy Prothro, the head man of the San Diego Chargers, lauded Barzo by saying he was one of the finest young defensive linemen to come along in years. Don Shula of Miami echoed those same sent sentiments.
Jim Langer, the All-AFC center from Miami, was given a particularly rough time by Big Barz and later in the Dolphin locker room said that he's 'one of the strongest players I've ever faced.'
'I never made anything in college, not even All-Big Ten,' shrugged Barzo. 'But a lot of that is politics. You have to come from a winning team. We only won 10 games in my three years at Indiana.'
Whatever Barzilauskas achieved he did through natural talent and the willingness to learn. He didn't have the greatest background for football as a youngster in Waterbury, Conn. And Barzo is the first to admit it.
'The football back home was really weak,' he admitted. 'I was way behind when I got to Indiana and I knew it. I didn't have much confidence in myself. The reason I went there was that Indiana was the only major school that offered me a scholarship.
'I thought I had a pretty good junior year. I know I improved a lot. My senior year proved plenty of things to me, but I can't be happy about it. What I really wanted was to be on a winner. That's what you play for.'
For a while last season Barzilauskas didn't know much about winning. The Jets were 1-7 and Barzo felt like he never left college. Suddenly, though, things began to happen. Good things. The Jets began to put it all together, offensively and defensively. And, they didn't stop until they won six straight games to finish at 7-7. Significantly, the winning streak was also the turning point in Barzo's emergence as the key of the front four.
'Midway through the season I started to play loose,' revealed Barzilauskas. 'I was very tight in the beginning. I didn't know what to expect. I finally reached a point of doing things by habit rather than having to think about them. I hesitated quite a bit at the beginning but as the season progressed I had everything done to me that could be done so I learned.
'There's such a difference between college ball and the pros. In college they tax your heart more than your mind. Some people try to get you to do impossible things in college. They almost expect you to cover the whole defensive line by yourself. In the pros, you've got a job and you do it and then try for the big play. In college, it seemed like they wanted the big play every play.'
'He's without question the finest defensive lineman I've ever coached,' praised Jet defensive line coach Dick Voris. 'He's got outstanding strength, good quickness, intelligence and he's dedicated. All he needs is experience and he'll one of the best around.
'Barzo needs to improve his pass rush. But he will. It is something all young linemen have to learn. In college they used to blow right in. But here they have a lot of old pros waiting to knock them down with moves the kids have never seen.
'We have three secrets to get to the quarterback. Carl has the inclination to wrestle too much with an opposing lineman. You have to shove him out of the way quick or the time element will beat you. He'll learn how, don't worry.'
Head coach Charley Winner was pleased with Barzo's rookie play. Actually, he was ecstatic at the progress his budding star made. So much so that he began to compare him with an all-time great. Gino Marchetti. And that's saying a lot.
'He practices like I remember Marchetti practicing at Baltimore,' beamed Winner. 'The thing I like about him is his concentration every time he lines up in practice. He's very intense and he wants to learn. I hope he never loses that attitude.'
There's no way he will. For the first time, Barzilauskas has experienced winning. He discovered how enjoyable it all is. He isn't about to stop now ... "
-Lou Sahadi, The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 77
Indiana
"He was something else. He towered over everybody in the room. They certainly don't come much bigger. Not when you're 6-6 and weigh 280 pounds. Yet, he stood there a bit uncomfortable. It all seemed strange to him. Answering questions before the New York writers was something new. He never experienced it before. Not in Waterbury, Connecticut or Bloomington, Indiana. But he was something special. Everyone who attended the press conference at the posh 21 Club could sense it. Such a setting is only reserved for super stars or a number one draft choice. And last spring Carl Barzilauskas was only a number.
But that was a year ago. Suddenly, Barzilauskas is something more. His rookie year disclosed that. He started every game at defensive tackle. And he was tested time after time. He was double-teamed and often triple-teamed. Yet, all the while he learned. He learned so well that he was almost named Rookie of the Year. More important, Barzilauskas is looked upon as a future super star, which is the way the Jets figured it all along.
It took a lot of figuring, too. Barzo, as he is known to his teammates, didn't have the greatest of years his final season at Indiana University. But there was a reason. Barzilauskas played all season long on a broken foot. He wouldn't quit. That more than anything else impressed the Jets. That and the obvious fact that he was big and strong. He had that much going for him. He certainly didn't get much recognition. That doesn't come easy when you're exposed to three years of losing football. It can get awfully frustrating.
NFL coaches and players, however, were the most frustrated. Tommy Prothro, the head man of the San Diego Chargers, lauded Barzo by saying he was one of the finest young defensive linemen to come along in years. Don Shula of Miami echoed those same sent sentiments.
Jim Langer, the All-AFC center from Miami, was given a particularly rough time by Big Barz and later in the Dolphin locker room said that he's 'one of the strongest players I've ever faced.'
'I never made anything in college, not even All-Big Ten,' shrugged Barzo. 'But a lot of that is politics. You have to come from a winning team. We only won 10 games in my three years at Indiana.'
Whatever Barzilauskas achieved he did through natural talent and the willingness to learn. He didn't have the greatest background for football as a youngster in Waterbury, Conn. And Barzo is the first to admit it.
'The football back home was really weak,' he admitted. 'I was way behind when I got to Indiana and I knew it. I didn't have much confidence in myself. The reason I went there was that Indiana was the only major school that offered me a scholarship.
'I thought I had a pretty good junior year. I know I improved a lot. My senior year proved plenty of things to me, but I can't be happy about it. What I really wanted was to be on a winner. That's what you play for.'
For a while last season Barzilauskas didn't know much about winning. The Jets were 1-7 and Barzo felt like he never left college. Suddenly, though, things began to happen. Good things. The Jets began to put it all together, offensively and defensively. And, they didn't stop until they won six straight games to finish at 7-7. Significantly, the winning streak was also the turning point in Barzo's emergence as the key of the front four.
'Midway through the season I started to play loose,' revealed Barzilauskas. 'I was very tight in the beginning. I didn't know what to expect. I finally reached a point of doing things by habit rather than having to think about them. I hesitated quite a bit at the beginning but as the season progressed I had everything done to me that could be done so I learned.
'There's such a difference between college ball and the pros. In college they tax your heart more than your mind. Some people try to get you to do impossible things in college. They almost expect you to cover the whole defensive line by yourself. In the pros, you've got a job and you do it and then try for the big play. In college, it seemed like they wanted the big play every play.'
'He's without question the finest defensive lineman I've ever coached,' praised Jet defensive line coach Dick Voris. 'He's got outstanding strength, good quickness, intelligence and he's dedicated. All he needs is experience and he'll one of the best around.
'Barzo needs to improve his pass rush. But he will. It is something all young linemen have to learn. In college they used to blow right in. But here they have a lot of old pros waiting to knock them down with moves the kids have never seen.
'We have three secrets to get to the quarterback. Carl has the inclination to wrestle too much with an opposing lineman. You have to shove him out of the way quick or the time element will beat you. He'll learn how, don't worry.'
Head coach Charley Winner was pleased with Barzo's rookie play. Actually, he was ecstatic at the progress his budding star made. So much so that he began to compare him with an all-time great. Gino Marchetti. And that's saying a lot.
'He practices like I remember Marchetti practicing at Baltimore,' beamed Winner. 'The thing I like about him is his concentration every time he lines up in practice. He's very intense and he wants to learn. I hope he never loses that attitude.'
There's no way he will. For the first time, Barzilauskas has experienced winning. He discovered how enjoyable it all is. He isn't about to stop now ... "
-Lou Sahadi, The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Saturday, June 27, 2015
1975 Profile: Garry Puetz
Guard
No. 78
Valparaiso
"Puetz continued his development into an outstanding young offensive lineman in 1974. He started all 14 games, 13 at right guard and one at center; he filled in the center slot in Chicago when Wayne Mulligan was on the bench with pneumonia. Garry is a good, strong blocker who has learned the fundamentals of pass protection very well, and also handled kickoffs against Houston.
Garry was one of the big surprises of the 1973 training camp when he was a rookie. He displaced veteran Dave Herman at the guard slot at the opening of the year and started the first four games. Puetz and Robert Woods are the only rookie linemen to win starting jobs with the Jets since Randy Rasmussen did it in 1967. Garry signed with the WFL last year but the contract was breached.
Drafted 12th in 1973, Garry was a kicker in college in addition to his line work and majored in physical education. He pronounces his name 'Pets' and his hometown is Chicago, Illinois."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 78
Valparaiso
"Puetz continued his development into an outstanding young offensive lineman in 1974. He started all 14 games, 13 at right guard and one at center; he filled in the center slot in Chicago when Wayne Mulligan was on the bench with pneumonia. Garry is a good, strong blocker who has learned the fundamentals of pass protection very well, and also handled kickoffs against Houston.
Garry was one of the big surprises of the 1973 training camp when he was a rookie. He displaced veteran Dave Herman at the guard slot at the opening of the year and started the first four games. Puetz and Robert Woods are the only rookie linemen to win starting jobs with the Jets since Randy Rasmussen did it in 1967. Garry signed with the WFL last year but the contract was breached.
Drafted 12th in 1973, Garry was a kicker in college in addition to his line work and majored in physical education. He pronounces his name 'Pets' and his hometown is Chicago, Illinois."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Friday, June 26, 2015
1975 Profile: Warren Koegel
Center
No. 53
Penn State
"Koegel started the season at center when Wayne Mulligan was ill with pneumonia, but suffered knee and ankle injuries which kayoed him. He made a brief appearance against Baltimore five weeks later and then was placed on the injured reserve list for the remainder of the season. Warren has recovered through off-season therapy programs.
Warren came to the Jets in 1974 in an off-season deal with Houston and has spent time with Oakland (1971 and 1972 taxi squads) and with St. Louis (1973). Originally a 3rd round choice of Oakland in 1971, he makes the long snap and can also play tackle.
Koegel was an outstanding Long Island athlete while at Seaford High School and his brother Pete is a pitcher in the Pirates' system. His hometown is Mineola, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 53
Penn State
"Koegel started the season at center when Wayne Mulligan was ill with pneumonia, but suffered knee and ankle injuries which kayoed him. He made a brief appearance against Baltimore five weeks later and then was placed on the injured reserve list for the remainder of the season. Warren has recovered through off-season therapy programs.
Warren came to the Jets in 1974 in an off-season deal with Houston and has spent time with Oakland (1971 and 1972 taxi squads) and with St. Louis (1973). Originally a 3rd round choice of Oakland in 1971, he makes the long snap and can also play tackle.
Koegel was an outstanding Long Island athlete while at Seaford High School and his brother Pete is a pitcher in the Pirates' system. His hometown is Mineola, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Thursday, June 25, 2015
1975 Profile: Gordie Browne
Offensive Tackle
No. 79
Boston College
"A backup tackle, Browne gained needed experience during 1974. He had only played one full year of offensive line in college, but showed the ability to learn. Gordie had back troubles stemming from the Coaches All-America Game in June of '74 and had a flare-up of that midway through the year and did not play in three games.
Gordie needs to polish up his pass protection but can handle run blocking adequately. Drafted No. 2 in 1974, he played an outstanding game against Ed 'Too Tall' Jones in the Senior Bowl.
Browne has a B.S. in marketing and a B.S. in management and is pursuing a master's in business administration. His hometown is Millis, Massachusetts."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 79
Boston College
"A backup tackle, Browne gained needed experience during 1974. He had only played one full year of offensive line in college, but showed the ability to learn. Gordie had back troubles stemming from the Coaches All-America Game in June of '74 and had a flare-up of that midway through the year and did not play in three games.
Gordie needs to polish up his pass protection but can handle run blocking adequately. Drafted No. 2 in 1974, he played an outstanding game against Ed 'Too Tall' Jones in the Senior Bowl.
Browne has a B.S. in marketing and a B.S. in management and is pursuing a master's in business administration. His hometown is Millis, Massachusetts."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
1975 Profile: Roger Bernhardt
Guard
No. 68
Kansas
"Bernhardt was used as a backup guard, but started against Chicago when Garry Puetz had to move to center, and did a fine job in that game. He also saw action against San Diego when Puetz bruised a foot.
He was reacquired by the Jets from St. Louis along with Jamie Rivers as compensation for Clifford McClain. A draft choice of Pittsburgh in 1973, Roger had been with the Jets in '73 briefly when he came via a trade with Pittsburgh in exchange for wide receiver Mike Haggard.
Roger majored in physical education. He lettered in football, basketball and track in high school and his hometown is Lyons, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 68
Kansas
"Bernhardt was used as a backup guard, but started against Chicago when Garry Puetz had to move to center, and did a fine job in that game. He also saw action against San Diego when Puetz bruised a foot.
He was reacquired by the Jets from St. Louis along with Jamie Rivers as compensation for Clifford McClain. A draft choice of Pittsburgh in 1973, Roger had been with the Jets in '73 briefly when he came via a trade with Pittsburgh in exchange for wide receiver Mike Haggard.
Roger majored in physical education. He lettered in football, basketball and track in high school and his hometown is Lyons, New York."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
1975 Profile: Milt Sunde
Guard
No. 64
Minnesota
"Sunde was acquired on waivers from Minnesota on June 3. He had an 11-year career with the Vikings, playing on two Super Bowl squads (1973-74). Sunde was a starter for nine years at right guard and was a reserve in 1974, but started two games last year. He also was the Vikings' backup center and makes the long snap. Originally drafted by the Vikings in the 20th round in the NFL draft of 1964, Milt has a reputation as a fine pass protector.
Milt was the winner of the 1974 Brian Piccolo Award from the YMCA for his work in 'Walk for Mankind.' He works in public relations and his hometown is Bloomington, Minnesota."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 64
Minnesota
"Sunde was acquired on waivers from Minnesota on June 3. He had an 11-year career with the Vikings, playing on two Super Bowl squads (1973-74). Sunde was a starter for nine years at right guard and was a reserve in 1974, but started two games last year. He also was the Vikings' backup center and makes the long snap. Originally drafted by the Vikings in the 20th round in the NFL draft of 1964, Milt has a reputation as a fine pass protector.
Milt was the winner of the 1974 Brian Piccolo Award from the YMCA for his work in 'Walk for Mankind.' He works in public relations and his hometown is Bloomington, Minnesota."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Sunday, June 21, 2015
1975 Profile: Travis Roach
Guard
No. 63
Texas
"Roach was a backup guard and special teamer in every game last year. He has good size and toughness to play the offensive line, and also worked at tight end during the '74 preseason when injuries depleted that position.
Travis passed up signing with the Jets in 1973, choosing to play in Canada instead; he played for the B.C. Lions, starting one game. He was originally a 6th round pick of the Jets in 1973 and was signed in 1974 after being released in Canada.
Travis majored in business. His hometown is Marlin, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 63
Texas
"Roach was a backup guard and special teamer in every game last year. He has good size and toughness to play the offensive line, and also worked at tight end during the '74 preseason when injuries depleted that position.
Travis passed up signing with the Jets in 1973, choosing to play in Canada instead; he played for the B.C. Lions, starting one game. He was originally a 6th round pick of the Jets in 1973 and was signed in 1974 after being released in Canada.
Travis majored in business. His hometown is Marlin, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Friday, June 19, 2015
1975 Profile: Wayne Mulligan
Center
No. 50
Clemson
"Mulligan was acquired from Chicago in a trade late in the 1974 training camp and was installed as the Jets' number one center, playing in 13 games and starting 12. The only games he did not start were against Kansas City (he relieved) and against Chicago when he was suffering from pneumonia. He did a fine job of blocking for Joe Namath and proved a solid run blocker. Wayne had a fumble recovery against Miami to save a Namath interception and prevent the Dolphins from gaining good field position.
Wayne was the regular starting center for St. Louis from 1970 through 1973, but missed the last game of the '73 campaign with a broken arm. He was originally an 8th round draft choice of the Cards in 1969 under Charley Winner.
Mulligan was an all-state high school lacrosse star in Maryland. He enjoys music. His hometown is Towson, Maryland."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 50
Clemson
"Mulligan was acquired from Chicago in a trade late in the 1974 training camp and was installed as the Jets' number one center, playing in 13 games and starting 12. The only games he did not start were against Kansas City (he relieved) and against Chicago when he was suffering from pneumonia. He did a fine job of blocking for Joe Namath and proved a solid run blocker. Wayne had a fumble recovery against Miami to save a Namath interception and prevent the Dolphins from gaining good field position.
Wayne was the regular starting center for St. Louis from 1970 through 1973, but missed the last game of the '73 campaign with a broken arm. He was originally an 8th round draft choice of the Cards in 1969 under Charley Winner.
Mulligan was an all-state high school lacrosse star in Maryland. He enjoys music. His hometown is Towson, Maryland."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
1975 Profile: Robert Woods
Offensive Tackle
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Woods continued to develop as a steady offensive tackle in his second season last year. He started every game and vastly improved his pass protection as the season went along.
He also has the ability to play at guard since he has good speed and quickness to pull outside. Robert started at left tackle for 10 games in 1973 and began his learning process then. Line coach Bob Fry feels Woods has excellent potential to be an asset for a long time.
Woods was drafted No. 2 in 1973 and has been a student teacher in the off-season. He's the brother of NFL defensive tackle Larry Woods. Robert played on three championship teams at Tennessee State. His hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 72
Tennessee State
"Woods continued to develop as a steady offensive tackle in his second season last year. He started every game and vastly improved his pass protection as the season went along.
He also has the ability to play at guard since he has good speed and quickness to pull outside. Robert started at left tackle for 10 games in 1973 and began his learning process then. Line coach Bob Fry feels Woods has excellent potential to be an asset for a long time.
Woods was drafted No. 2 in 1973 and has been a student teacher in the off-season. He's the brother of NFL defensive tackle Larry Woods. Robert played on three championship teams at Tennessee State. His hometown is Rogersville, Alabama."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Sunday, June 14, 2015
1975 Profile: Winston Hill
Offensive Tackle
No. 75
Texas Southern
"Hill had one of his finest seasons ever as a pro, according to the entire Jet coaching staff, despite being overlooked for the Pro Bowl. He has always been noted for his ability to pass protect for Joe Namath and in 1974 he improved his run blocking to a high level of efficiency. Winston was outstanding throughout the 1974 campaign, especially against Houston and San Diego who presented strong rush lines to contend with.
Winston has made eight All-Star appearances in his 12 years to date and has established himself as one of the premier offensive linemen in the NFL. He was honored by his teammates as a co-captain of the offense in 1973 and has played both sides of the line for the Jets, switching from left tackle to right tackle in 1971. Winston has never missed a game, now owning a streak of 167 consecutive appearances.
The Jets have always been noted for running behind his blocking, a tribute to his skills. He experimented with a lower weight a few years ago, but now has returned to the 275-280 range.
Hill won press acclaim for his work against Ordell Braase and Ben Davidson during the 1968 championship games. He came to the Jets in 1963 as a free agent after Baltimore and Weeb Ewbank had drafted him in the 11th round of the '63 NFL draft.
Hill was a Texas high school state tennis champion from Weldon High for three years (1957-59). Weldon also won the district grid crown in each of his four years on the team. Winston is very active in religion and with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He did work for the government in St. Croix, V.I. during the off-season.
Winston makes his off-season home in Englewood, Colorado. His hometown is Gladewater, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 75
Texas Southern
"Hill had one of his finest seasons ever as a pro, according to the entire Jet coaching staff, despite being overlooked for the Pro Bowl. He has always been noted for his ability to pass protect for Joe Namath and in 1974 he improved his run blocking to a high level of efficiency. Winston was outstanding throughout the 1974 campaign, especially against Houston and San Diego who presented strong rush lines to contend with.
Winston has made eight All-Star appearances in his 12 years to date and has established himself as one of the premier offensive linemen in the NFL. He was honored by his teammates as a co-captain of the offense in 1973 and has played both sides of the line for the Jets, switching from left tackle to right tackle in 1971. Winston has never missed a game, now owning a streak of 167 consecutive appearances.
The Jets have always been noted for running behind his blocking, a tribute to his skills. He experimented with a lower weight a few years ago, but now has returned to the 275-280 range.
Hill won press acclaim for his work against Ordell Braase and Ben Davidson during the 1968 championship games. He came to the Jets in 1963 as a free agent after Baltimore and Weeb Ewbank had drafted him in the 11th round of the '63 NFL draft.
Hill was a Texas high school state tennis champion from Weldon High for three years (1957-59). Weldon also won the district grid crown in each of his four years on the team. Winston is very active in religion and with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. He did work for the government in St. Croix, V.I. during the off-season.
Winston makes his off-season home in Englewood, Colorado. His hometown is Gladewater, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Saturday, June 13, 2015
1975 Profile: Randy Rasmusssen
Guard
No. 66
Kearney State
"Rasmussen turned in another consistent season at left guard. He has held down that spot for the past eight seasons and has played in 66 consecutive games heading into 1975, starting all of them. Randy is one of the major reasons why the Jets offensive line allowed only 19 quarterback sacks last year, second only to Pittsburgh in the NFL in protecting the quarterback.
Known for his great pass blocking and his powerful one-on-one type of work, he has been able to add stability to young Robert Woods, who plays alongside him. Drafted 12th in 1967, Randy is perhaps the best pulling guard the Jets have ever had.
Randy majored in mathematics. He grew up on a farm and likes to hunt and play golf. He's in great demand on the off-season banquet circuit, where he does an outstanding job.
Randy makes his off-season home in Elmsford, New York and his hometown is Elba, Nebraska."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 66
Kearney State
"Rasmussen turned in another consistent season at left guard. He has held down that spot for the past eight seasons and has played in 66 consecutive games heading into 1975, starting all of them. Randy is one of the major reasons why the Jets offensive line allowed only 19 quarterback sacks last year, second only to Pittsburgh in the NFL in protecting the quarterback.
Known for his great pass blocking and his powerful one-on-one type of work, he has been able to add stability to young Robert Woods, who plays alongside him. Drafted 12th in 1967, Randy is perhaps the best pulling guard the Jets have ever had.
Randy majored in mathematics. He grew up on a farm and likes to hunt and play golf. He's in great demand on the off-season banquet circuit, where he does an outstanding job.
Randy makes his off-season home in Elmsford, New York and his hometown is Elba, Nebraska."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Friday, June 12, 2015
1975 Profile: Lou Piccone
Kick Returner-Wide Receiver
No. 89
West Liberty State
"Piccone returned more kickoffs for more yardage than any other specialist in the NFL in 1974. He brought back 39 kickoffs for 961 yards, good for a 24.6 average, third best in Jet history and the finest mark since 1966. His longest was a 46-yarder against New England. Lou also had a fumble recovery, against Miami; the recovery led to the Jets' first touchdown in a 17-14 upset of the Dolphins.
Lou has good speed and developed his moves as the season progressed. He spent two years in the minor leagues, one with the Youngstown Hardhats and one with the Bridgeport Jets, and was a regular at both spots. Lou signed with the Jets as a free agent.
Lou majored in health and physical education with a minor in speech. His hometown is Vineland, New Jersey."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 89
West Liberty State
"Piccone returned more kickoffs for more yardage than any other specialist in the NFL in 1974. He brought back 39 kickoffs for 961 yards, good for a 24.6 average, third best in Jet history and the finest mark since 1966. His longest was a 46-yarder against New England. Lou also had a fumble recovery, against Miami; the recovery led to the Jets' first touchdown in a 17-14 upset of the Dolphins.
Lou has good speed and developed his moves as the season progressed. He spent two years in the minor leagues, one with the Youngstown Hardhats and one with the Bridgeport Jets, and was a regular at both spots. Lou signed with the Jets as a free agent.
Lou majored in health and physical education with a minor in speech. His hometown is Vineland, New Jersey."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Thursday, June 11, 2015
1975 Profile: Willie Brister
Tight End
No. 86
Southern
"Brister proved to be a capable backup tight end to Richard Caster and filled in for him twice during the year. He came in early at Buffalo when Caster injured a shoulder and went the rest of the way, catching one pass for 21 yards to keep a drive alive. Willie drew the starting assignment against Houston when Caster had a hamstring pull and pulled down four for 69. He strained his left knee against San Diego and sat out the final two games.
Willie did a good job of blocking in the line on short yardage situations. Drafted 15th in 1974, he has good quickness and runs the 40 in 4.9.
Willie majored in history and aims to be a coach. His biggest thrill was winning six straight games during his senior year at Southern. His hometown is Baton Rouge, Louisiana."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 86
Southern
"Brister proved to be a capable backup tight end to Richard Caster and filled in for him twice during the year. He came in early at Buffalo when Caster injured a shoulder and went the rest of the way, catching one pass for 21 yards to keep a drive alive. Willie drew the starting assignment against Houston when Caster had a hamstring pull and pulled down four for 69. He strained his left knee against San Diego and sat out the final two games.
Willie did a good job of blocking in the line on short yardage situations. Drafted 15th in 1974, he has good quickness and runs the 40 in 4.9.
Willie majored in history and aims to be a coach. His biggest thrill was winning six straight games during his senior year at Southern. His hometown is Baton Rouge, Louisiana."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Sunday, June 7, 2015
1975 Profile: Marv Owens
Wide Receiver
No. 37
San Diego State
"Picked up as a free agent late in the 1974 season when he was recommended by Jamie Rivers, who knew him at St. Louis, Owens bolstered the special teams unit and will be given a full look at wide receiver this season. He was with St. Louis in 1973 but was released during the 1974 training camp.
Owens made the Cards' roster because of his versatility- he can also play quarterback, running back and can placekick- and was in eight games with St. Louis in 1973. He was originally a 14th round selection of Minnesota in 1972 but was cut in training camp.
Marv is the brother of Brig Owens, Redskins safety, and a cousin of the Browns' Greg Pruitt and the Bulls' Bob Love. He was a former No. 1 pick of the Oakland Athletics in baseball. Marv makes his home in LaMesa, California and his hometown is Fullerton, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 37
San Diego State
"Picked up as a free agent late in the 1974 season when he was recommended by Jamie Rivers, who knew him at St. Louis, Owens bolstered the special teams unit and will be given a full look at wide receiver this season. He was with St. Louis in 1973 but was released during the 1974 training camp.
Owens made the Cards' roster because of his versatility- he can also play quarterback, running back and can placekick- and was in eight games with St. Louis in 1973. He was originally a 14th round selection of Minnesota in 1972 but was cut in training camp.
Marv is the brother of Brig Owens, Redskins safety, and a cousin of the Browns' Greg Pruitt and the Bulls' Bob Love. He was a former No. 1 pick of the Oakland Athletics in baseball. Marv makes his home in LaMesa, California and his hometown is Fullerton, California."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Friday, June 5, 2015
1975 Profile: David Knight
Wide Receiver
No. 82
William and Mary
"Knight fulfilled all the hopes the Jets had for him in 1974, becoming the starting right wide receiver and earning a reputation as one of the most sure-handed receivers in the NFL (coaches say he dropped only one pass last year). He finished second only to Jerome Barkum in the Jets receiving stats with 40 catches for 579 yards and four touchdowns, eighth in the AFC rankings. David caught passes in 13 of the 14 games and was one of Namath's prime targets for 'big situation' passes.
David caught touchdown passes against Baltimore, Houston, the Giants and New England, and had a career high in the season finale with seven grabs for 117 yards. He has not missed a game in his two years, spending 1973 as a backup, catching six passes including a 17-yard touchdown against Green Bay.
Drafted 11th in 1973, he does not have burning speed but has a great knack of finding the open spot and holding on after the hit, and runs outstanding patterns.
Born in Trieste, Italy, his hometown is Alexandria, Virginia. David enjoys movies and reading for relaxation."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 82
William and Mary
"Knight fulfilled all the hopes the Jets had for him in 1974, becoming the starting right wide receiver and earning a reputation as one of the most sure-handed receivers in the NFL (coaches say he dropped only one pass last year). He finished second only to Jerome Barkum in the Jets receiving stats with 40 catches for 579 yards and four touchdowns, eighth in the AFC rankings. David caught passes in 13 of the 14 games and was one of Namath's prime targets for 'big situation' passes.
David caught touchdown passes against Baltimore, Houston, the Giants and New England, and had a career high in the season finale with seven grabs for 117 yards. He has not missed a game in his two years, spending 1973 as a backup, catching six passes including a 17-yard touchdown against Green Bay.
Drafted 11th in 1973, he does not have burning speed but has a great knack of finding the open spot and holding on after the hit, and runs outstanding patterns.
Born in Trieste, Italy, his hometown is Alexandria, Virginia. David enjoys movies and reading for relaxation."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
1975 Profile: Ed Bell
Wide Receiver
No. 7
Idaho State
"Bell spent 1974 as a backup and a situation wide receiver, catching 13 passes for 126 yards. He scored a touchdown in the season opener at Kansas City. He was usually used when the Jets went into a three wide receiver formation on passing downs.
Ed was a regular left side wide receiver in 1972 and 1973, catching 59 passes in that span, and was third among Jet receivers in '73 with 24 catches. Despite his relatively small size, he has great endurance, missing only three games in his career.
He had two outstanding afternoons in 1972, grabbing 7-197 at Baltimore and then taking a tipped last-minute pass 83 yards for the winning touchdown against the Colts at Shea. Ed co-holds the Jet record for receptions in a game (12 vs. the Colts, 1970) with Don Maynard and Art Powell.
Drafted 9th in 1970, Ed majored in speech pathology and audiology. He works for the State Department in helping find employment for minority youths. His hometown is Waco, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 7
Idaho State
"Bell spent 1974 as a backup and a situation wide receiver, catching 13 passes for 126 yards. He scored a touchdown in the season opener at Kansas City. He was usually used when the Jets went into a three wide receiver formation on passing downs.
Ed was a regular left side wide receiver in 1972 and 1973, catching 59 passes in that span, and was third among Jet receivers in '73 with 24 catches. Despite his relatively small size, he has great endurance, missing only three games in his career.
He had two outstanding afternoons in 1972, grabbing 7-197 at Baltimore and then taking a tipped last-minute pass 83 yards for the winning touchdown against the Colts at Shea. Ed co-holds the Jet record for receptions in a game (12 vs. the Colts, 1970) with Don Maynard and Art Powell.
Drafted 9th in 1970, Ed majored in speech pathology and audiology. He works for the State Department in helping find employment for minority youths. His hometown is Waco, Texas."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
1975 Profile: Richard Caster
Tight End
No. 88
Jackson State
"The rap was always there. It hung over his head from the very start. It seemed that it would never go away. It was worse at home. The boos would cascade throughout Shea Stadium for all to hear. Every time he dropped a pass the boos grew louder. They hurt. It gnawed at him. For almost five years it ripped at his insides. It was like a nightmare. The criticism was that he had bad hands. That he dropped too many passes. But it was unfair. And last year Richard Caster made them all believers. He was named All-Pro at tight end. That's saying a lot, too.
Caster's credentials for the Pro Bowl included leading all tight ends in yardage with 745 and his 19.6 average per catch was topped by only two wide receivers. What's more, his seven touchdown receptions was the best total among tight ends and fourth among all NFL receivers.
It hasn't been easy for the innately quiet Caster. There were moments of deep depression. So deep that he thought about giving it all up. He had speed and he had size. The fastest tight end in the business. He could turn a simple catch into a touchdown. That much he had going for him. What he had to do was make it all work. So he hung tough. And last season Caster stood tall. He stood alone as the best at his position. Richard Caster was for real. A truly gifted athlete who overcame the adversity of a demanding position.
The pressure was there right from the start. After his rookie season in 1970, Caster was the choice to replace the retired George Sauer. It was quite a challenge. In his short career with the Jets, Sauer had distinguished himself as one of the game's premier wide receivers. He was a bonafide All-Pro who was in consort with the passing artistry of Joe Namath. Their timing was a thing of beauty. Both were young and the future was theirs. They were a deadly combination that could destroy a defense with their precision. But Sauer walked away from it all. Caster was the one they looked to. It was a lot to ask.
Naturally, comparisons were made. It was inevitable. Caster felt the pressure in 1971. He realized he would be the prime target for Namath's aerials. Maybe he tried too hard.
'I was really glad when the season was over,' recalled Caster. 'I had become pretty shaken by the whole thing. I think that I matured a lot and grew up a lot during that time, though, and I said to myself that it's not going to bother me. It was tough taking Sauer's place. George had such concentration that it was rare he dropped a ball in practice. It was something I had to work on. I know I can catch. It's a matter of keeping my mind on the ball, forgetting about the people in the stands and what's around me.'
It was Namath more than anyone else who was a stabilizing factor for Caster. Actually, the two really didn't have enough time to work together during Caster's first two years on the club. And time is so vital to young player's development. In 1970, Namath missed most of the season with a broken wrist. The following year, Namath tore up his knee in a preseason game and didn't play until the final few games. And, when Namath opened up shop in 1972, Caster was switched from wide receiver to tight end. Which was more pressure Caster had to overcome.
'I wasn't too happy at first,' admitted Caster. 'It's that much tougher to be a tight end. There are so many more things you have to learn and more people to come in contact with on every play. As a wide receiver you just have to learn your pass routes and maybe a couple of blocking assignments but as a tight end you have to you have to do both. You're always in traffic.'
Through it all, Namath never lost confidence in Caster. Which was important. Quarterbacks have a tendency to turn away from receivers who fail to hold on to their passes. But not Namath. Time and again Namath would come right back to Caster after he had dropped a pass. It was great for Caster's morale. He needed a lift. And he appreciated it, too.
'Joe is the kind of guy who would say it's his fault when he's not at fault,' disclosed Caster. 'I had been tight and he helped me to relax. He makes you feel decent. I don't think I would have ever developed to my full potential without Joe. He's the type who considers his receivers, who'll say, 'forget it, we'll get it next time.'
'Like everyone else, I had certain misconceptions about Joe at the beginning. Like he was really stuck up, arrogant and hard to get along with. Was I wrong. He turned out to be totally the opposite. I've thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing with him.'
Namath knows about the mental part. He realized how important it is, how it's different for each individual. He recognized it could have been a big problem with Caster. And he helped correct it.
'Richard is the quiet type,' pointed out Namath. 'When he drops a ball or runs a wrong pattern, which is rare, he gets dejected and feels badly. It's better to get a guy the hell out of that kind of feeling.'
Caster can look back at it now. He's adjusted to the mental end. And he's also made adjustments on the playing field beginning with his transformation to tight end in 1972. That's when it all started to come together for Caster.
'The first few years had been an education,' related Caster. 'They certainly don't prepare you for boos in college. Weeb Ewbank used to tell me how Don Maynard went through the same thing, dropping balls. If you don't have the personality to deal with that pressure, you can't make it as a professional athlete.
'I realized that my play has to be predicated on concentration. I am always trying to score on every catch and running before I have the ball. I have to look the ball into my hands and forget where I'm going. Just catch it.'
Which he began to do consistently. Head coach Charley Winner wasn't overly concerned about Caster dropping any passes. He saw it happen before to John Mackey, a retired former All-Pro end at Baltimore.
'People forgot that Mackey used to drop the ball his first few years with the Colts when I was coaching there,' emphasized Winner. 'He'd drop the easy ones, too. He'd loose concentration on them. That was Caster's problem but I knew it could be corrected. Physical problems, they're the ones that can't be corrected.'
But not even Mackey can do what Caster can. In fact, no other club has a tight end like Caster who is 6-5, weighs 228 and is clocked at 4.5 in the forty. What's more, no other tight end in the history of professional football has averaged 19.2 yards a catch. There aren't many wide receivers who can match that, either. Really, there isn't anybody around like Rich Caster.
Not anywhere ... "
-Lou Sahadi, The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 88
Jackson State
"The rap was always there. It hung over his head from the very start. It seemed that it would never go away. It was worse at home. The boos would cascade throughout Shea Stadium for all to hear. Every time he dropped a pass the boos grew louder. They hurt. It gnawed at him. For almost five years it ripped at his insides. It was like a nightmare. The criticism was that he had bad hands. That he dropped too many passes. But it was unfair. And last year Richard Caster made them all believers. He was named All-Pro at tight end. That's saying a lot, too.
Caster's credentials for the Pro Bowl included leading all tight ends in yardage with 745 and his 19.6 average per catch was topped by only two wide receivers. What's more, his seven touchdown receptions was the best total among tight ends and fourth among all NFL receivers.
It hasn't been easy for the innately quiet Caster. There were moments of deep depression. So deep that he thought about giving it all up. He had speed and he had size. The fastest tight end in the business. He could turn a simple catch into a touchdown. That much he had going for him. What he had to do was make it all work. So he hung tough. And last season Caster stood tall. He stood alone as the best at his position. Richard Caster was for real. A truly gifted athlete who overcame the adversity of a demanding position.
The pressure was there right from the start. After his rookie season in 1970, Caster was the choice to replace the retired George Sauer. It was quite a challenge. In his short career with the Jets, Sauer had distinguished himself as one of the game's premier wide receivers. He was a bonafide All-Pro who was in consort with the passing artistry of Joe Namath. Their timing was a thing of beauty. Both were young and the future was theirs. They were a deadly combination that could destroy a defense with their precision. But Sauer walked away from it all. Caster was the one they looked to. It was a lot to ask.
Naturally, comparisons were made. It was inevitable. Caster felt the pressure in 1971. He realized he would be the prime target for Namath's aerials. Maybe he tried too hard.
'I was really glad when the season was over,' recalled Caster. 'I had become pretty shaken by the whole thing. I think that I matured a lot and grew up a lot during that time, though, and I said to myself that it's not going to bother me. It was tough taking Sauer's place. George had such concentration that it was rare he dropped a ball in practice. It was something I had to work on. I know I can catch. It's a matter of keeping my mind on the ball, forgetting about the people in the stands and what's around me.'
It was Namath more than anyone else who was a stabilizing factor for Caster. Actually, the two really didn't have enough time to work together during Caster's first two years on the club. And time is so vital to young player's development. In 1970, Namath missed most of the season with a broken wrist. The following year, Namath tore up his knee in a preseason game and didn't play until the final few games. And, when Namath opened up shop in 1972, Caster was switched from wide receiver to tight end. Which was more pressure Caster had to overcome.
'I wasn't too happy at first,' admitted Caster. 'It's that much tougher to be a tight end. There are so many more things you have to learn and more people to come in contact with on every play. As a wide receiver you just have to learn your pass routes and maybe a couple of blocking assignments but as a tight end you have to you have to do both. You're always in traffic.'
Through it all, Namath never lost confidence in Caster. Which was important. Quarterbacks have a tendency to turn away from receivers who fail to hold on to their passes. But not Namath. Time and again Namath would come right back to Caster after he had dropped a pass. It was great for Caster's morale. He needed a lift. And he appreciated it, too.
'Joe is the kind of guy who would say it's his fault when he's not at fault,' disclosed Caster. 'I had been tight and he helped me to relax. He makes you feel decent. I don't think I would have ever developed to my full potential without Joe. He's the type who considers his receivers, who'll say, 'forget it, we'll get it next time.'
'Like everyone else, I had certain misconceptions about Joe at the beginning. Like he was really stuck up, arrogant and hard to get along with. Was I wrong. He turned out to be totally the opposite. I've thoroughly enjoyed the experience of playing with him.'
Namath knows about the mental part. He realized how important it is, how it's different for each individual. He recognized it could have been a big problem with Caster. And he helped correct it.
'Richard is the quiet type,' pointed out Namath. 'When he drops a ball or runs a wrong pattern, which is rare, he gets dejected and feels badly. It's better to get a guy the hell out of that kind of feeling.'
Caster can look back at it now. He's adjusted to the mental end. And he's also made adjustments on the playing field beginning with his transformation to tight end in 1972. That's when it all started to come together for Caster.
'The first few years had been an education,' related Caster. 'They certainly don't prepare you for boos in college. Weeb Ewbank used to tell me how Don Maynard went through the same thing, dropping balls. If you don't have the personality to deal with that pressure, you can't make it as a professional athlete.
'I realized that my play has to be predicated on concentration. I am always trying to score on every catch and running before I have the ball. I have to look the ball into my hands and forget where I'm going. Just catch it.'
Which he began to do consistently. Head coach Charley Winner wasn't overly concerned about Caster dropping any passes. He saw it happen before to John Mackey, a retired former All-Pro end at Baltimore.
'People forgot that Mackey used to drop the ball his first few years with the Colts when I was coaching there,' emphasized Winner. 'He'd drop the easy ones, too. He'd loose concentration on them. That was Caster's problem but I knew it could be corrected. Physical problems, they're the ones that can't be corrected.'
But not even Mackey can do what Caster can. In fact, no other club has a tight end like Caster who is 6-5, weighs 228 and is clocked at 4.5 in the forty. What's more, no other tight end in the history of professional football has averaged 19.2 yards a catch. There aren't many wide receivers who can match that, either. Really, there isn't anybody around like Rich Caster.
Not anywhere ... "
-Lou Sahadi, The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
Monday, June 1, 2015
1975 Profile: Jerome Barkum
Wide Receiver
No. 83
Jackson State
"He's the prototype of the modern wide receiver- big and fast. Barkum had a banner year in 1974, leading the Jets in receiving for the second straight year. He hauled down 41 passes for 524 yards and three touchdowns from his left-side post. His total of 41 placed him seventh in the AFC listings and fifth among pure wide receivers. Barkum has already had one Pro Bowl appearance (1973) and is pointing towards more in the future. He has 4.6 speed and has great strength downfield to continue after the catch. He is known as one of pro football's most dangerous receivers and is looked to by Joe Namath frequently in crucial situations.
Jerome had two touchdowns against Baltimore, one in each meeting. His other TD was a supreme effort against Buffalo at Shea when he wrestled the ball away from Donnie Walker in the end zone to provide the winning touchdown of the Jet upset. His best overall day of the year came in the last game at Baltimore, when he caught six for 91 yards including his '74 long of 39 yards. His Pro Bowl year of 1973 saw him lead the AFC in average per catch with an 18.6 norm. Jerome had his finest pro day that year with eight catches at Cincinnati.
He already has 11 TDs in his three years and has never missed a game, now owning a 42-game streak heading into 1975. Jerome spent his rookie year (1972) as a backup on both sides after missing valuable learning time by not reporting to camp until mid-August. A No. 1 draft choice in '72, he could also double up as a tight end in emergencies.
Jerome is nicknamed 'Gee.' He's he cousin of Lem Barney of the Detroit Lions and his brother Melvin was a quarterback and running back at Mississippi State. Jerome enjoys music, swimming and fishing. His hometown is Gulfport, Mississippi."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
No. 83
Jackson State
"He's the prototype of the modern wide receiver- big and fast. Barkum had a banner year in 1974, leading the Jets in receiving for the second straight year. He hauled down 41 passes for 524 yards and three touchdowns from his left-side post. His total of 41 placed him seventh in the AFC listings and fifth among pure wide receivers. Barkum has already had one Pro Bowl appearance (1973) and is pointing towards more in the future. He has 4.6 speed and has great strength downfield to continue after the catch. He is known as one of pro football's most dangerous receivers and is looked to by Joe Namath frequently in crucial situations.
Jerome had two touchdowns against Baltimore, one in each meeting. His other TD was a supreme effort against Buffalo at Shea when he wrestled the ball away from Donnie Walker in the end zone to provide the winning touchdown of the Jet upset. His best overall day of the year came in the last game at Baltimore, when he caught six for 91 yards including his '74 long of 39 yards. His Pro Bowl year of 1973 saw him lead the AFC in average per catch with an 18.6 norm. Jerome had his finest pro day that year with eight catches at Cincinnati.
He already has 11 TDs in his three years and has never missed a game, now owning a 42-game streak heading into 1975. Jerome spent his rookie year (1972) as a backup on both sides after missing valuable learning time by not reporting to camp until mid-August. A No. 1 draft choice in '72, he could also double up as a tight end in emergencies.
Jerome is nicknamed 'Gee.' He's he cousin of Lem Barney of the Detroit Lions and his brother Melvin was a quarterback and running back at Mississippi State. Jerome enjoys music, swimming and fishing. His hometown is Gulfport, Mississippi."
-The New York Jets Official 1975 Yearbook
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