Dave Casper, also known as “The Ghost,” is a former professional football player who played as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). Casper is best known for his time with the Oakland Raiders and is regarded as one of the top tight ends in NFL history. His ability to make crucial plays in important moments earned him a reputation as a clutch performer.
Early Life and College Career
Full Name: David Mark Casper
Born: May 22, 1951
Hometown: Green Bay, Wisconsin
High School:
- Casper attended Bay Port High School in Green Bay, where he played multiple sports, including football. His athleticism and skills on the football field were evident early on.
College:
- Casper played college football at the University of Notre Dame, where he became a standout tight end.
- During his time at Notre Dame, he developed into one of the top players at his position, known for his strong blocking and pass-catching ability.
- He played for head coach Ara Parseghian and was part of a team that won the 1973 National Championship.
- Casper’s college career was highly successful, and he earned recognition as one of the top tight end prospects heading into the NFL.
NFL Career
NFL Draft:
- Dave Casper was selected by the Oakland Raiders in the 2nd round of the 1974 NFL Draft (44th overall pick).
Oakland Raiders (1974–1980)
- Tight End:
- Casper is best known for his time with the Oakland Raiders, where he played for 7 seasons.
- He became one of the most dangerous tight ends in the league, known for his combination of size, strength, and excellent hands.
- His ability to make big plays in key moments helped solidify his reputation as a clutch performer, especially in the postseason.
- Casper was instrumental in helping the Raiders win Super Bowl XI in 1977, where the team defeated the Minnesota Vikings 32–14. He caught a touchdown pass in the game and contributed significantly to the team’s success.
- Over his years with the Raiders, he earned 5 Pro Bowl selections and was named a First-Team All-Pro in 1977.
Houston Oilers (1980)
- Tight End:
- After his time with the Raiders, Casper played for a short period with the Houston Oilers during the 1980 season.
- He was still a capable tight end, but his role with the Oilers was less prominent than his time in Oakland.
Los Angeles Raiders (1981–1984)
- Tight End:
- Casper returned to the Oakland Raiders, who had relocated to Los Angeles, and played with the team for a few more seasons.
- Though his production had declined slightly with age, Casper remained a reliable contributor to the Raiders’ offense.
- He helped the Raiders make playoff appearances during the early 1980s.
Retirement and Legacy
- Retirement:
- Dave Casper retired from professional football after the 1984 season.
- His impact on the game, particularly in the postseason, left a lasting legacy. He was widely regarded as one of the most versatile tight ends of his era, capable of both blocking and catching passes with equal proficiency.
- Pro Football Hall of Fame:
- In 2002, Dave Casper was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his exceptional career. His contribution to the Raiders’ championship success, as well as his role in popularizing the tight end position as both a blocker and a receiving threat, earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.
Career Highlights and Achievements
- Super Bowl Champion: Super Bowl XI (1977)
- Pro Bowls: 5 selections (1975–1979)
- First-Team All-Pro: 1 time (1977)
- Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2002
- NFL All-Decade Team: 1970s
Legacy
- Position: Tight End
- NFL Teams: Oakland Raiders (1974–1980), Houston Oilers (1980), Los Angeles Raiders (1981–1984)
- Career Length: 11 seasons
- Super Bowl Champion: 1 (Super Bowl XI)
- Hall of Fame: Inducted in 2002
Dave Casper is remembered as one of the NFL’s first true dual-threat tight ends, capable of being a key part of both the passing and running games. His ability to perform in crucial moments, particularly in playoff games, solidified his place among the all-time greats at his position.