Sad news from the Raiders family today, where it was learned that former Oakland Raiders cornerback Alonzo “Skip” Thomas died of a heart attack on Sunday. He was 61.
Nicknamed “Dr. Death.” Thomas spent all six years of his NFL career in Silver & Black after being selected by Oakland in the seventh round of the 1972 NFL draft. Thomas, who had 17 interceptions during his career, was a starting cornerback alongside Willie Brown for most of his career. His career was highlighted by a strong performance in the Raiders’ Super Bowl victory over Minnesota in Super Bowl XI in 1977.
Thomas’ death comes almost a year to the day that former defensive backfield teammate Jack Tatum passed away. Tatum died July 27, 2010.
Check back for reaction from the Raiders plus more from Jerry McDonald and Steve Corkran.
