Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis has passed away at the age of 82, according to the team. Davis is one of the most unique members of the NFL dating back to his AFL days in the 1960s.
Al Davis, Oakland Raiders Owner, Dies At Age 82
Davis' career began in the 1960s when he became an assistant coach for the Chargers before ultimately moving into the role of the AFL's Commissioner. Before the merger with the NFL, he resigned his position and eventually bought a stake in the Raiders.
He dies on Saturday as the team’s principal owner.
Davis was an interesting character and, despite the Raiders’ struggles over the last decade, he should be remembered as running one of the league’s most successful franchises, as the Raiders website notes.
In these memorable 48 years, the Raiders have had 28 winning seasons, including 16 in a row from 1965 through the 1980 World Championship season. In 34 of those seasons, the Raiders earned a record of .500 or better.
Davis’ health was clearly declining in recent years though he remained active in the organization’s day-to-day activities, often to much criticism.
The NFL just lost one of the all-time greats.
Raiders fans should gather at SB Nation’s Silver and Black Pride.
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