1978 Profile: Marvin Powell

Offensive Tackle

No. 79

USC

"From what everyone says, or intimates, Marvin Powell may be the next great offensive tackle. 'He was the best athlete in the whole draft,' said Oakland's Al Davis after the Jets took him fourth in the 1977 college talent pool.

Powell had his rookie season ruined by injury, but the best is yet to come. 'We can build around him,' says Jets coach Walt Michaels. 'He gives us a double dimension as a great blocker for both passing and rushing.' Most pro experts believe Powell will be another Art Shell.

Born at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, his father was a career military officer. Powell was switched from tight end to tackle at  USC. His idol is Muhammed Ali."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1978 Edition)

"Considered to be one of the best all-around athletes in the 1977 NFL draft, Marvin is an overpowering blocker with quickness, intelligence and durability. Inserted into the Jets' starting offensive line last season, he provided the club with a double dimension as a great blocker for both the pass and run.

Marvin was one of four sophomores to start for the 1974 USC National Championship team. He played in three Rose Bowl games during his phenomenal career at USC.

Marvin's nickname is 'Boomer.' "

-1978 Topps No. 141

1978 Profile: Rich Caster

Wide Receiver

No. 88

Jackson State

"Musical receivers on the Jets. Caster moved from tight end to wide receiver and Jerome Barkum from wide receiver to tight end. Caster had his lowest production last year because of injuries, just 10 receptions. But he averaged 20 yards a catch, just above his career average of 18.0.

Born in Mobile, Alabama, he went to Jackson State where he caught 28 touchdown passes and was drafted No. 1 by the Jets in 1970. He is a three-time Pro Bowl selection.

The best deep threat in pro football at tight end, Caster now will drive cornerbacks dizzy, not strong safeties. But man-on-man or zone, he knows how to get open.

Caster gives time to numerous causes."

-Dave Newhouse, The Complete Handbook of Pro Football (1978 Edition)

"One of the premier receivers in pro football, Richard is an outstanding deep threat against the zone. He has steadily improved his blocking ability with the Jets. He has a great pair of hands.

Richard makes many personal appearances on behalf of the Jets."

-1978 Topps No. 21