Golden Richards, the former NFL wide receiver whose name became synonymous with Dallas Cowboys glory, has left a lasting legacy both on and off the field. 

Richards, known for his pivotal role in the Cowboys’ 1978 Super Bowl victory and his unmistakable flowing blonde hair, passed away on Friday, January 23, 2024, at the age of 73, at his home in Murray, Utah, due to congestive heart failure. His journey from a collegiate star to an NFL legend tells a story of triumph, resilience, and the harsh realities of life after football.

Born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Richards’s speed and agility made him a standout wide receiver and punt returner during his college years, first at Brigham Young University and then at the University of Hawaii. 

His remarkable performance, including leading the nation in return touchdowns during his junior year, set the stage for his professional career. Richards fulfilled his childhood dream when he was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys, where he played most of his seven-season NFL career. Additionally, Richards spent time with the Chicago Bears and the Denver Broncos, showcasing his talent across the league.

Richards’ most memorable moment came in Super Bowl XII, where his 29-yard touchdown reception from fullback Robert Newhouse solidified the Cowboys’ victory. This play, emblematic of Richards’ career, highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and contribute significantly to his team’s success. Throughout his time with the Cowboys, Richards was known as a deep-threat receiver, accumulating impressive stats, including 122 receptions for 2,136 yards and 17 touchdowns.

However, Richards’ life after retiring from the NFL in 1980 was marked by significant challenges. He battled with health issues, including drug addiction, and was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2011. His struggles underscore the physical and mental toll professional football can take on its players, with repeated concussions and the rigors of the game contributing to his later health problems. 

Richards’ brother Doug remembered him as a great football player and a tender-hearted individual who fought bravely against the health issues that plagued his later years. He explained to a local news outlet the impact of seven to eight years of football’s physical demands on a wide receiver weighing 175 pounds, noting how multiple concussions also contributed to his condition. 

Doug Richards emphasized the depth of their bond and the profound difficulty of the loss of his brother. “He’s moved on to a better place,” he shared, highlighting his brother’s courageous battle up to the final moments of his life. 

According to his brother, Richards suffered a hip fracture in 2022, resulting in four surgeries. He spent his last years living with his sons, Goldie Jr. and Jordan.