RIP Al Davis
- Thread starter Joey
- Start date
Statement from Raiders.com
http://www.raiders.com/media-vault/...-Tribute/fd19d80f-a2ee-4485-9c69-8690ac88f446
http://www.raiders.com/media-vault/...-Tribute/fd19d80f-a2ee-4485-9c69-8690ac88f446
"From the earliest days of the AFL, Al's love for the game and fierce loyalty to his franchise contributed to the success and popularity of pro football. His competitive spirit helped develop the great rivalry our team and fans enjoy today with the Oakland Raiders. His contributions to the game played an important role in building the strong foundation the NFL enjoys today."
Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt
Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt
HOUSTON -- The Oakland Raiders left their downtown hotel for a two-hour walkthrough Saturday after a team meeting in which the coaching staff told players about owner Al Davis' passing. Players and coaches were businesslike as they boarded team buses, although there were several hugs and handshakes, particularly among some of the longtime employees.
The Raiders play the Houston Texans on Sunday afternoon, in what some players said will be an emotional game because of Davis' passing. The team is planning some form of tribute to Davis, but that's still being formulated, according to a Raiders official. Details will be unveiled later in the day.
"It's with my deepest and most sincere regret that Coach Davis has passed," Raiders coach Hue Jackson said. "My thoughts and prayers go first to his wife and family, then to the Raider family and organization. Because of this accomplished man and his forever love of the black and silver, the fire that burned in him, I will honor. It will forever burn in me.
"Obviously, it's a tremendous loss. I just know Coach. He would want us to go out and play like Raiders. What a tremendous person, tremendous man. I owe him so much. This league owes him so much. He's a legend and an icon, and we're going to honor him by playing the way the Raiders should play."
Jackson continued: "It's hard. ... We want him to live forever. Our players never thought anything would happen to him because he's Coach. They're sad, and I think they're disappointed, but we're channeling it the right way. We're here to play a football game. We understand what his message would be to us, and that's, 'Just win, baby,' and that's what we look forward to doing."
Defensive tackle Richard Seymour, whom the Raiders acquired in a 2009 trade with the New England Patriots, mourned the loss of Davis.
"In my short time of knowing him -- his passion, his will to win, will forever be with me," Seymour said. "When I first came here, I could just tell over the phone his passion, his commitment. Everyone that's been connected to him, that's his lasting impact. He's an icon. In my mind, he's a legend, not only in my heart and the Raiders' hearts but with the foundation of the NFL.
"He transcends black, white -- it didn't matter. To him, it was about winning. It was about people. Even when you go to politics, it didn't matter. Republican, Democrat, he was about the end result. I think we can learn a lot from him."
Seymour said Davis would want the team to focus on Sunday's game.
"In my mind, it isn't 'Let's win one for the Gipper.' I feel, with him, he would want us to go out and do what we do," Seymour said. "The end result would be winning. There definitely will be a moment of silence and a lot of passion for sure. We'll try to go out and emulate what he would want us to be."
Hall of Fame defensive back Willie Brown, the Raiders' director of squad development, has been with the franchise for 41 years as a player and coach. He shared the following anecdote with the media after breaking down crying during a previous interview.
When Brown played for the Denver Broncos in 1964, Davis came up to him on the field after a game against the Raiders and told him, as they shook hands, "One day we're going to get you here." Brown said that when he pulled his hand away, he had $50 in his palm. The Raiders eventually traded for Brown, who played for Oakland from 1967 to 1978.
"That's a true story," Brown said. "True story."
The Raiders play the Houston Texans on Sunday afternoon, in what some players said will be an emotional game because of Davis' passing. The team is planning some form of tribute to Davis, but that's still being formulated, according to a Raiders official. Details will be unveiled later in the day.
"It's with my deepest and most sincere regret that Coach Davis has passed," Raiders coach Hue Jackson said. "My thoughts and prayers go first to his wife and family, then to the Raider family and organization. Because of this accomplished man and his forever love of the black and silver, the fire that burned in him, I will honor. It will forever burn in me.
"Obviously, it's a tremendous loss. I just know Coach. He would want us to go out and play like Raiders. What a tremendous person, tremendous man. I owe him so much. This league owes him so much. He's a legend and an icon, and we're going to honor him by playing the way the Raiders should play."
Jackson continued: "It's hard. ... We want him to live forever. Our players never thought anything would happen to him because he's Coach. They're sad, and I think they're disappointed, but we're channeling it the right way. We're here to play a football game. We understand what his message would be to us, and that's, 'Just win, baby,' and that's what we look forward to doing."
Defensive tackle Richard Seymour, whom the Raiders acquired in a 2009 trade with the New England Patriots, mourned the loss of Davis.
"In my short time of knowing him -- his passion, his will to win, will forever be with me," Seymour said. "When I first came here, I could just tell over the phone his passion, his commitment. Everyone that's been connected to him, that's his lasting impact. He's an icon. In my mind, he's a legend, not only in my heart and the Raiders' hearts but with the foundation of the NFL.
"He transcends black, white -- it didn't matter. To him, it was about winning. It was about people. Even when you go to politics, it didn't matter. Republican, Democrat, he was about the end result. I think we can learn a lot from him."
Seymour said Davis would want the team to focus on Sunday's game.
"In my mind, it isn't 'Let's win one for the Gipper.' I feel, with him, he would want us to go out and do what we do," Seymour said. "The end result would be winning. There definitely will be a moment of silence and a lot of passion for sure. We'll try to go out and emulate what he would want us to be."
Hall of Fame defensive back Willie Brown, the Raiders' director of squad development, has been with the franchise for 41 years as a player and coach. He shared the following anecdote with the media after breaking down crying during a previous interview.
When Brown played for the Denver Broncos in 1964, Davis came up to him on the field after a game against the Raiders and told him, as they shook hands, "One day we're going to get you here." Brown said that when he pulled his hand away, he had $50 in his palm. The Raiders eventually traded for Brown, who played for Oakland from 1967 to 1978.
"That's a true story," Brown said. "True story."
What they're saying about Raiders owner Al Davis, who died Saturday at age 82
Bay Area News Group staff report
Posted: 10/08/2011 12:24:12 PM PDT
Updated: 10/08/2011 01:09:33 PM PDT
Al Davis, the face of the Oakland Raiders franchise and one of the true innovators in professional sports history, died at age 82 on Saturday. Here are some reactions to his passing:
The Oakland Raiders:
"The Oakland Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of Al Davis.
Al Davis was unique — a maverick, a giant among giants, a true legend among legends, the brightest star among stars, a hero, a mentor, a friend.
Al Davis was the only person in professional football history to have been a scout, assistant coach, head coach, general manager, commissioner and owner.
He was an innovator, a pioneer with a deep love and passion for the game of football. His contributions to the game are innumerable and his legacy will endure forever through generations of players, coaches, administrators and fans.
Al Davis was a champion of diversity who maintained the courage of his convictions. His passion for the game we all love is best exemplified by his famous phrase, "COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE."
The fire that burns brightest in the Raider organization, "THE WILL TO WIN," will continue to blaze through the legacy of the great Al Davis."
Oakland Raiders CEO Amy Trask, in an email to the team's employees:
—During this indescribably difficult time, let us all reflect upon what it means to be a Raider — let us all reflect upon how privileged we are to be Raiders — and let us all be Raiders."
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
"Al Davis' passion for football and his influence on the game were extraordinary. He definied the Raiders and contributed to pro football at every level. The respect he commanded was evident in the way that people listened carefully every time he spoke. He is a true legend of the game whose impact and legacy will foever be part of the NFL."
Steve Perry, president, executive director of the Pro Football Hall of Fame
"Pro football has lost a true giant of the game, a person whose name is synonymous with a 'commitment to excellence.' His contributions to the game and love of his team are well documented. Few have achieved the successes and respect he accomplished in his years as a coach, league commissioner and club owner. His Hall of Fame legacy will live on and always be a major chapter in the pro football story."
Raiders head coach Hue Jackson:
"It is with my deepest and most sincere regret that Mr. Al Davis, Coach Davis to me, has passed away. My thoughts and prayers, first and foremost, go out to his wife and family, then the Raider family and organization. It is because of this accomplished man and his forever love of Silver and Black, the fire that burned in him I will honor and will always and forever burn in me."
Tom Flores, former Raiders player, coach and current broadcaster:
"May he rest in peace. Forty-eight years ago, I met Al, and every once in a while in your life, someone comes along that changes the direction of your life. He did that to me and changed the direction with his passion for the Raiders and professional football. He was a dear man, my mentor and most of all, my friend. I will miss him."
Raiders Hall of Fame defensive back and current assistant coach Willie Brown:
"I came to the Raiders in 1967 with the trade with Denver. It was the best thing that happened in my career to come and play for Mr. Davis. I've surely enjoyed every year and I've been here over 41 years. Our relationship has grown and it's hard to believe, as strong a man as he was. I've enjoyed every year of being here with him and it's a loss not only to the Raider organization, but to all of America. People love the Raiders and every time they think of the Raiders, they think of Mr. Davis. He was a great leader on and off the field and he took care of a lot of people in his lifetime. He helped guys off the field, not only guys that played for him but also guys that played for other teams. It's a sad day in the Raider Nation, but we must go on."
San Francisco 49ers Owner and Co-Chairman Denise DeBartolo York
:
"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Al Davis. One of my fondest memories of Al is a dinner we shared many years ago. During that meal, he presented my father with a very special opportunity to purchase the San Francisco 49ers. In recent years, we were pleased to spend time with Al as our guest in the Owners' Suite at Candlestick Park while our two teams met on the field. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family and friends."
San Francisco 49ers Owner and Co-Chairman John York:
"The Bay Area and NFL communities have lost a true pioneer in Al Davis. The significant contributions that he made to the game of football at every level spoke volumes about his commitment to excellence. We enjoyed working with Al at the league level on the development and growth of our game, and at the team level we appreciated the competition between the 49ers and his Raiders. Al Davis commanded great respect from those he worked alongside and all he competed against."
San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke:
"Anybody who enjoys the game of football owes a tip of the cap to Al Davis. The numerous contributions that Mr. Davis made to the development and growth of the NFL played an integral role in making the game as great as it is today. Although this is a very sad day in the NFL and the Bay Area, it is a great time to reflect on what Mr. Davis has meant to this sport as well as our community."
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones:
"He had such passion for the Raiders, he had a big heart and he was very loyal. I'm sorry, I'm getting emotional ... We loved him."
Former Raiders quarterback, current team broadcaster Jim Plunkett:
"The passing of Al Davis saddens us all. He's been a big part of my life, my family's life since 1978 when he gave me a second chance and another opportunity to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, which I appreciate very much. He was always encouraging and helpful both on the field and off the field. He got me get ready to play as much as any coach out there including coach Tom Flores. He'll be sorely missed. His contributions to the game of football go on and on. Not only will his fans and his former players and coaches miss him greatly, but the entire league will."
Former Raiders running back Clem Daniels:
"Mr. Davis was definitely a father figure to me. It's a great loss not just for the Raiders, but for sports in general. We'll miss him a lot. The Raider organization and tradition will continue and he's left a legacy that we can all be proud of and that's important to us all."
Oakland A's
"We are saddened to learn of Mr. Davis' passing. He was certainly a pioneering legend in the world of professional football, and one of the most important figures in Bay Area sports history. Our condolences to the Davis family and everyone associated with the Oakland Raiders."
New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick
"While I am saddened by the news of Mr. Davis' passing, I will forever be heartened and enriched by the many personal interactions I had with him over the years. His winning, his football knowledge, his passion for his team and contributions to the league made him one of the all-time greats. By striving for the highest level of excellence with our respective teams and the game itself, we will be honoring the memory of Al Davis."
Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt:
"From the earliest days of the AFL, Al's love for the game and fierce loyalty to his franchise contributed to the success and popularity of pro football. His competitive spirit helped develop the great rivalry our team and fans enjoy today with the Oakland Raiders. His contributions to the game played an important role in building the strong foundation the NFL enjoys today."
Denver Broncos Owner and Chief Executive Officer Pat Bowlen:
"During my 28 years with the Broncos, I came to know Al Davis as one of the most influential and innovative people in the history of the National Football League. His competitive spirit and intensity grew our rivalry with the Raiders into one of the fiercest in all of sports. I respected Al for what he meant to the NFL. He was a visionary who defined the Raiders and had an enormous responsibility for the prosperity of this league."
San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh:
"Mr. Davis is a titan and pillar of the game. I had the pleasure and honor to know him and to work for him. And to me, he is the greatest. The autumn wind will always be a Raider."
San Diego Chargers President Dean Spanos:
"Al Davis is one of the main reasons our family is in the NFL today. Al approached my dad (Alex Spanos) about getting involved in the NFL and was very helpful to us through the process. He had great insight into the league, both the product on the field and the business off the field. He saw the potential for growth. He was very much a visionary. Our family will always be grateful to Al for his friendship. Al is also a big reason for the strong rivalry between the Raiders and the Chargers and its popularity among both teams' fans. He personified the image and mystique of the Raiders, and that image has helped build the strength of our rivalries and the popularity of our game. There has been no one in the NFL like Al Davis.
"The NFL and NFL fans everywhere — not just Raiders fans — owe Al Davis for helping to build the game we all love so much. He will be missed."
Former Raiders offensive lineman Lincoln Kennedy via Facebook:
"My Heart is heavy today. The world has lost a truly great and innovative man. Al Davis was not always the easiest man to deal with, or the most loved. But I do know he created an organization that helped make me the man I am today. MR. DAVIS... THANK YOU AND MAY YOU REST IN PEACE!"
NFL Network's Michael Lombardi, a former Raiders executive
"Football truly was his life. Every single day was about the Oakland Raiders. His personality, his commitment, his vision of the team was always there and it's going to remain there even though he's no longer with us."
"I would hope that the Raiders stay pretty much within the framework and the structure that he has built and his vision of the tdeam. The Raiders shall always be in the same unifom. The Raiders shall always have the patch on the side of their helmets. The Raiders have always been a big, physical team. Now there has to be some adjustments in some relationships in value over speed and those types of areas. But, for me personally, having worked there and spent as much time as I have next to him I really hope the Raiders keep this philosophy. Because the philosophy does work. There have been mistakes within the philosophy, but it works. Make some modifications, but continue to go the way the man wanted to go."
Former NFL coach and now broadcaster Steve Mariucci :
"The Raiders haven't had recent success, but really when you look at the big picture and the body of work of Al Davis, his decades of work going back to the 1960's ... what a legacy he has. He helped build this National Football League into what it is, the No. 1 sports in America. And the Raiders have been as successful as any organization in any sport."
Denver Broncos coach and former Raiders assistant John Fox:
"I want to offer my sincere condolences to the Davis family. I will always be grateful for the opportunity Mr. Davis gave me to become a coordinator in the NFL. There is no doubt that I learned a lot of football from him during my time with the Raiders. Al Davis was great for the game, and he will be missed."
NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver and ex-Raider Jerry Rice:
"Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Raider Nation. Al Davis was a man whose impact on the NFL will never be forgotten."
Former Oakland Raider Matt Millen:
"Everybody has their opinions (of Al Davis) but the opinion that they don't really have of Al Davis is the one that I'll always know. It's that he was always there for you. My dad was going to have heart surgery when he was 80 years old. Al Davis called me every single day to make sure my dad was taken care of. He wanted to fly him out to Minnesota to a heart specialist. He wanted to do all these things. ... he just always did things like that that nobody would ever know about nor would he care that anyone knew about it. But that's the Al Davis that I'll always remember."
Rapper and longtime Raiders fan Ice Cube:
"It's a sad day for anybody wearing Silver & Black. He was the Frank Sinatra of football. He's going to be missed."
NBA Hall of Famer and longtime Raiders fan Magic Johnson:
"Al Davis marched to the beat of his own drummer."
REACTIONS FROM TWITTER:
Raiders fullback Marcel Reece:
"Thank you Al Davis for giving me the chance to live out my dream! I am proud to be a Raider and enjoyed our close relationship."
Raiders cornerback Chimdi Chekwa:
"My prayers go out to the Davis family. I'm proud to be a part of this organization and the influence of Coach Davis."
Raiders cornerback Stanford Routt:
"It pains me to say this...R.I.P. to the greatest sports owner to ever walk the earth...Allan Davis."
Raiders running back Michael Bush:
"Never got 2 say thanks #mr.davis 4 giving me the chance 2 be a Raider ur a legend 2 the nfl My thoughts n prayers go out 2 the davis family."
Bills linebacker and former Raider Kirk Morrison:
"Always grateful to Mr. Al Davis for giving me the opportunity to play in the NFL. A true Pioneer to our game. #RIPMrDavis"
Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey:
"R.I.P Coach Al Davis ... Thank you for everything. You've changed my life. A true players Owner."
Raiders linebacker Kamerion Wimbley:
"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Al Davis. He was an extraordinary man. I send my sincerest condolences to his family"
Raiders defensive back Mike Mitchell:
"R.I.P. Mr. Davis. I'm am forever in debt to you. Thank you for drafting me and changing my life."
Raiders defensive back Jerome Boyd:
"My heart go out to everybody he has touched and feels like I do right now... R.I.P. Mr. Davis & THANK YOU for everything u have done for me."
Raiders tight end Kevin Boss:
"Tomorrow we will go out there & celebrate the life of Mr. Davis and honor him by laying it all on the line...so thankful he made me a Raider."
Raiders wide receiver Louis Murphy:
"R.I.P to our owner Al Davis. He was such pioneer to the game of football. If it wasn't for you, a lot of us players wouldn't be where we are."
Former Raiders running back and Hall of Famer Marcus Allen:
"My heart goes out to Carole and Mark Davis. I will always respect, admire and be grateful for the opportunity he gave me."
Former Raiders linebacker and current broadcaster Bill Romanowski:
"visionary, pioneer, warrior. rough day for me. #justwinbaby"
Former Raider and current Bengals linebacker Thomas Howard:
"Mr. Davis is a Pioneer to the Game that we play and LOVE, NFL Icon and #LEGEND. Sad day for the #RaiderNation and the Davis Family."
Former NFL quarterback and TV commentator Joe Theismann:
"The passing of Mr. Davis marks the end of an era. He helped make the
game what it is today. He was willing to push back for his beliefs. RIP"
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald:
"RIP Al Davis. Prayers go out to his family/friends and all raiders fans out there."
Former NFL quarterback and current NFL analyst Kurt Warner:
"My heart goes out to the Davis family after hearing about the death of Al Davis. The NFL family has lost one of its best."
Hall of Fame running back and NFL analyst Marshall Faulk:
"R.I.P. Al Davis ... A true pioneer!!!!"
ESPN's Chris Mortenson:
"Not sure if I can identify greater contributor to the game than Al Davis. Even those who battled him honor him. "
Sports Illustrated's Peter King:
"Al Davis, the most unforgettable person I've had the pleasure of meeting in 31 years in the business, dead at 82. RIP."
Rapper and longtime Raiders fan Snoop Dogg:
"Rest in Power to the Al Davis "win baby win" U will be missed."
Bay Area News Group staff report
Posted: 10/08/2011 12:24:12 PM PDT
Updated: 10/08/2011 01:09:33 PM PDT
Al Davis, the face of the Oakland Raiders franchise and one of the true innovators in professional sports history, died at age 82 on Saturday. Here are some reactions to his passing:
The Oakland Raiders:
"The Oakland Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of Al Davis.
Al Davis was unique — a maverick, a giant among giants, a true legend among legends, the brightest star among stars, a hero, a mentor, a friend.
Al Davis was the only person in professional football history to have been a scout, assistant coach, head coach, general manager, commissioner and owner.
He was an innovator, a pioneer with a deep love and passion for the game of football. His contributions to the game are innumerable and his legacy will endure forever through generations of players, coaches, administrators and fans.
Al Davis was a champion of diversity who maintained the courage of his convictions. His passion for the game we all love is best exemplified by his famous phrase, "COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE."
The fire that burns brightest in the Raider organization, "THE WILL TO WIN," will continue to blaze through the legacy of the great Al Davis."
Oakland Raiders CEO Amy Trask, in an email to the team's employees:
—During this indescribably difficult time, let us all reflect upon what it means to be a Raider — let us all reflect upon how privileged we are to be Raiders — and let us all be Raiders."
NFL commissioner Roger Goodell
"Al Davis' passion for football and his influence on the game were extraordinary. He definied the Raiders and contributed to pro football at every level. The respect he commanded was evident in the way that people listened carefully every time he spoke. He is a true legend of the game whose impact and legacy will foever be part of the NFL."
Steve Perry, president, executive director of the Pro Football Hall of Fame
"Pro football has lost a true giant of the game, a person whose name is synonymous with a 'commitment to excellence.' His contributions to the game and love of his team are well documented. Few have achieved the successes and respect he accomplished in his years as a coach, league commissioner and club owner. His Hall of Fame legacy will live on and always be a major chapter in the pro football story."
Raiders head coach Hue Jackson:
"It is with my deepest and most sincere regret that Mr. Al Davis, Coach Davis to me, has passed away. My thoughts and prayers, first and foremost, go out to his wife and family, then the Raider family and organization. It is because of this accomplished man and his forever love of Silver and Black, the fire that burned in him I will honor and will always and forever burn in me."
Tom Flores, former Raiders player, coach and current broadcaster:
"May he rest in peace. Forty-eight years ago, I met Al, and every once in a while in your life, someone comes along that changes the direction of your life. He did that to me and changed the direction with his passion for the Raiders and professional football. He was a dear man, my mentor and most of all, my friend. I will miss him."
Raiders Hall of Fame defensive back and current assistant coach Willie Brown:
"I came to the Raiders in 1967 with the trade with Denver. It was the best thing that happened in my career to come and play for Mr. Davis. I've surely enjoyed every year and I've been here over 41 years. Our relationship has grown and it's hard to believe, as strong a man as he was. I've enjoyed every year of being here with him and it's a loss not only to the Raider organization, but to all of America. People love the Raiders and every time they think of the Raiders, they think of Mr. Davis. He was a great leader on and off the field and he took care of a lot of people in his lifetime. He helped guys off the field, not only guys that played for him but also guys that played for other teams. It's a sad day in the Raider Nation, but we must go on."
San Francisco 49ers Owner and Co-Chairman Denise DeBartolo York
:
"I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Al Davis. One of my fondest memories of Al is a dinner we shared many years ago. During that meal, he presented my father with a very special opportunity to purchase the San Francisco 49ers. In recent years, we were pleased to spend time with Al as our guest in the Owners' Suite at Candlestick Park while our two teams met on the field. Our sincerest condolences go out to his family and friends."
San Francisco 49ers Owner and Co-Chairman John York:
"The Bay Area and NFL communities have lost a true pioneer in Al Davis. The significant contributions that he made to the game of football at every level spoke volumes about his commitment to excellence. We enjoyed working with Al at the league level on the development and growth of our game, and at the team level we appreciated the competition between the 49ers and his Raiders. Al Davis commanded great respect from those he worked alongside and all he competed against."
San Francisco 49ers general manager Trent Baalke:
"Anybody who enjoys the game of football owes a tip of the cap to Al Davis. The numerous contributions that Mr. Davis made to the development and growth of the NFL played an integral role in making the game as great as it is today. Although this is a very sad day in the NFL and the Bay Area, it is a great time to reflect on what Mr. Davis has meant to this sport as well as our community."
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones:
"He had such passion for the Raiders, he had a big heart and he was very loyal. I'm sorry, I'm getting emotional ... We loved him."
Former Raiders quarterback, current team broadcaster Jim Plunkett:
"The passing of Al Davis saddens us all. He's been a big part of my life, my family's life since 1978 when he gave me a second chance and another opportunity to be a starting quarterback in the NFL, which I appreciate very much. He was always encouraging and helpful both on the field and off the field. He got me get ready to play as much as any coach out there including coach Tom Flores. He'll be sorely missed. His contributions to the game of football go on and on. Not only will his fans and his former players and coaches miss him greatly, but the entire league will."
Former Raiders running back Clem Daniels:
"Mr. Davis was definitely a father figure to me. It's a great loss not just for the Raiders, but for sports in general. We'll miss him a lot. The Raider organization and tradition will continue and he's left a legacy that we can all be proud of and that's important to us all."
Oakland A's
"We are saddened to learn of Mr. Davis' passing. He was certainly a pioneering legend in the world of professional football, and one of the most important figures in Bay Area sports history. Our condolences to the Davis family and everyone associated with the Oakland Raiders."
New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick
"While I am saddened by the news of Mr. Davis' passing, I will forever be heartened and enriched by the many personal interactions I had with him over the years. His winning, his football knowledge, his passion for his team and contributions to the league made him one of the all-time greats. By striving for the highest level of excellence with our respective teams and the game itself, we will be honoring the memory of Al Davis."
Kansas City Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt:
"From the earliest days of the AFL, Al's love for the game and fierce loyalty to his franchise contributed to the success and popularity of pro football. His competitive spirit helped develop the great rivalry our team and fans enjoy today with the Oakland Raiders. His contributions to the game played an important role in building the strong foundation the NFL enjoys today."
Denver Broncos Owner and Chief Executive Officer Pat Bowlen:
"During my 28 years with the Broncos, I came to know Al Davis as one of the most influential and innovative people in the history of the National Football League. His competitive spirit and intensity grew our rivalry with the Raiders into one of the fiercest in all of sports. I respected Al for what he meant to the NFL. He was a visionary who defined the Raiders and had an enormous responsibility for the prosperity of this league."
San Francisco 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh:
"Mr. Davis is a titan and pillar of the game. I had the pleasure and honor to know him and to work for him. And to me, he is the greatest. The autumn wind will always be a Raider."
San Diego Chargers President Dean Spanos:
"Al Davis is one of the main reasons our family is in the NFL today. Al approached my dad (Alex Spanos) about getting involved in the NFL and was very helpful to us through the process. He had great insight into the league, both the product on the field and the business off the field. He saw the potential for growth. He was very much a visionary. Our family will always be grateful to Al for his friendship. Al is also a big reason for the strong rivalry between the Raiders and the Chargers and its popularity among both teams' fans. He personified the image and mystique of the Raiders, and that image has helped build the strength of our rivalries and the popularity of our game. There has been no one in the NFL like Al Davis.
"The NFL and NFL fans everywhere — not just Raiders fans — owe Al Davis for helping to build the game we all love so much. He will be missed."
Former Raiders offensive lineman Lincoln Kennedy via Facebook:
"My Heart is heavy today. The world has lost a truly great and innovative man. Al Davis was not always the easiest man to deal with, or the most loved. But I do know he created an organization that helped make me the man I am today. MR. DAVIS... THANK YOU AND MAY YOU REST IN PEACE!"
NFL Network's Michael Lombardi, a former Raiders executive
"Football truly was his life. Every single day was about the Oakland Raiders. His personality, his commitment, his vision of the team was always there and it's going to remain there even though he's no longer with us."
"I would hope that the Raiders stay pretty much within the framework and the structure that he has built and his vision of the tdeam. The Raiders shall always be in the same unifom. The Raiders shall always have the patch on the side of their helmets. The Raiders have always been a big, physical team. Now there has to be some adjustments in some relationships in value over speed and those types of areas. But, for me personally, having worked there and spent as much time as I have next to him I really hope the Raiders keep this philosophy. Because the philosophy does work. There have been mistakes within the philosophy, but it works. Make some modifications, but continue to go the way the man wanted to go."
Former NFL coach and now broadcaster Steve Mariucci :
"The Raiders haven't had recent success, but really when you look at the big picture and the body of work of Al Davis, his decades of work going back to the 1960's ... what a legacy he has. He helped build this National Football League into what it is, the No. 1 sports in America. And the Raiders have been as successful as any organization in any sport."
Denver Broncos coach and former Raiders assistant John Fox:
"I want to offer my sincere condolences to the Davis family. I will always be grateful for the opportunity Mr. Davis gave me to become a coordinator in the NFL. There is no doubt that I learned a lot of football from him during my time with the Raiders. Al Davis was great for the game, and he will be missed."
NFL Hall of Fame wide receiver and ex-Raider Jerry Rice:
"Thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Raider Nation. Al Davis was a man whose impact on the NFL will never be forgotten."
Former Oakland Raider Matt Millen:
"Everybody has their opinions (of Al Davis) but the opinion that they don't really have of Al Davis is the one that I'll always know. It's that he was always there for you. My dad was going to have heart surgery when he was 80 years old. Al Davis called me every single day to make sure my dad was taken care of. He wanted to fly him out to Minnesota to a heart specialist. He wanted to do all these things. ... he just always did things like that that nobody would ever know about nor would he care that anyone knew about it. But that's the Al Davis that I'll always remember."
Rapper and longtime Raiders fan Ice Cube:
"It's a sad day for anybody wearing Silver & Black. He was the Frank Sinatra of football. He's going to be missed."
NBA Hall of Famer and longtime Raiders fan Magic Johnson:
"Al Davis marched to the beat of his own drummer."
REACTIONS FROM TWITTER:
Raiders fullback Marcel Reece:
"Thank you Al Davis for giving me the chance to live out my dream! I am proud to be a Raider and enjoyed our close relationship."
Raiders cornerback Chimdi Chekwa:
"My prayers go out to the Davis family. I'm proud to be a part of this organization and the influence of Coach Davis."
Raiders cornerback Stanford Routt:
"It pains me to say this...R.I.P. to the greatest sports owner to ever walk the earth...Allan Davis."
Raiders running back Michael Bush:
"Never got 2 say thanks #mr.davis 4 giving me the chance 2 be a Raider ur a legend 2 the nfl My thoughts n prayers go out 2 the davis family."
Bills linebacker and former Raider Kirk Morrison:
"Always grateful to Mr. Al Davis for giving me the opportunity to play in the NFL. A true Pioneer to our game. #RIPMrDavis"
Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey:
"R.I.P Coach Al Davis ... Thank you for everything. You've changed my life. A true players Owner."
Raiders linebacker Kamerion Wimbley:
"I am deeply saddened by the loss of Al Davis. He was an extraordinary man. I send my sincerest condolences to his family"
Raiders defensive back Mike Mitchell:
"R.I.P. Mr. Davis. I'm am forever in debt to you. Thank you for drafting me and changing my life."
Raiders defensive back Jerome Boyd:
"My heart go out to everybody he has touched and feels like I do right now... R.I.P. Mr. Davis & THANK YOU for everything u have done for me."
Raiders tight end Kevin Boss:
"Tomorrow we will go out there & celebrate the life of Mr. Davis and honor him by laying it all on the line...so thankful he made me a Raider."
Raiders wide receiver Louis Murphy:
"R.I.P to our owner Al Davis. He was such pioneer to the game of football. If it wasn't for you, a lot of us players wouldn't be where we are."
Former Raiders running back and Hall of Famer Marcus Allen:
"My heart goes out to Carole and Mark Davis. I will always respect, admire and be grateful for the opportunity he gave me."
Former Raiders linebacker and current broadcaster Bill Romanowski:
"visionary, pioneer, warrior. rough day for me. #justwinbaby"
Former Raider and current Bengals linebacker Thomas Howard:
"Mr. Davis is a Pioneer to the Game that we play and LOVE, NFL Icon and #LEGEND. Sad day for the #RaiderNation and the Davis Family."
Former NFL quarterback and TV commentator Joe Theismann:
"The passing of Mr. Davis marks the end of an era. He helped make the
game what it is today. He was willing to push back for his beliefs. RIP"
Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald:
"RIP Al Davis. Prayers go out to his family/friends and all raiders fans out there."
Former NFL quarterback and current NFL analyst Kurt Warner:
"My heart goes out to the Davis family after hearing about the death of Al Davis. The NFL family has lost one of its best."
Hall of Fame running back and NFL analyst Marshall Faulk:
"R.I.P. Al Davis ... A true pioneer!!!!"
ESPN's Chris Mortenson:
"Not sure if I can identify greater contributor to the game than Al Davis. Even those who battled him honor him. "
Sports Illustrated's Peter King:
"Al Davis, the most unforgettable person I've had the pleasure of meeting in 31 years in the business, dead at 82. RIP."
Rapper and longtime Raiders fan Snoop Dogg:
"Rest in Power to the Al Davis "win baby win" U will be missed."
Al and Bud WERE the AFL
TITANS OWNER K.S. "BUD" ADAMS, JR
(On the passing of Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis)
"Al was a football man - his entire life revolved around the game he loved. He worked his way up through the ranks and had a knowledge of all phases of the game. That experience aided him as an owner. He was quite different from every other owner in that way. As an AFL guy, he was in that group of people who pushed our league forward. I didn't get to see him over the last few years and I know many, including myself, will miss him."
TITANS OWNER K.S. "BUD" ADAMS, JR
(On the passing of Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis)
"Al was a football man - his entire life revolved around the game he loved. He worked his way up through the ranks and had a knowledge of all phases of the game. That experience aided him as an owner. He was quite different from every other owner in that way. As an AFL guy, he was in that group of people who pushed our league forward. I didn't get to see him over the last few years and I know many, including myself, will miss him."
Whether you like or hate the raiders, no matter the team your are a fan of this man deserves to be respected. He was a true football pioneer and a legend. RIP!
Hopefully the next Raider owner(s) are as passionate about the team and the game because you don't want to end up with a Dr. York as your owner. Trust me!
Hopefully the next Raider owner(s) are as passionate about the team and the game because you don't want to end up with a Dr. York as your owner. Trust me!