Raider: The Raymond Chester Story

A gripping portrait of an American football legend whose impact stretched far beyond the game.

From the electrifying fields of Morgan State to the roaring stadiums of the NFL, Raymond Chester’s journey is one of triumph and resilience. As America reeled in the wake of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s assassination, Chester was at the forefront of Black athletes breaking into the mainstream, reshaping the face of professional American football.

Raider brings his extraordinary story to life through extensive conversations with Welsh author and rugby fan Jon Gower, offering a rare, intimate look at the man behind the legend. More than just a chronicle of athletic greatness, this book is a testament to Chester’s lasting influence--on the game, on representation, and on generations to come.

A must-read for sports fans everywhere, Raider is both a celebration of an icon and a heartfelt tribute from Wales to one of football’s true pioneers.

Jon Gower is a former BBC Wales arts and media correspondent and the author of over forty books. His works include The Story of Wales and Y Storïwr.