Al Davis in 1984

Renegade, outsider, rebel, and eccentric – all of these words can be used to describe late Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis who passed away at the age of 82.

Ever since entering the NFL in 1963 as head coach and general manager of the Raiders, Davis has done things his own way, often clashing with the NFL and even people within his own organization. Davis, known for his trademark glasses and black and grey attire, was a tough individual but he remains one of the most important figures in the NFL.

Davis always did things on his own terms and was not afraid to pick a fight with anyone who was willing to battle him. Davis’ own personality shined through his team as the Raiders were often looked at as outsider and underdogs in the NFL. The Hall of Famer always wanted what was best for his team, because if you were a Raider, you were a Raider for life. Failing to secure a new stadium for his team, Davis moved the team from Oakland to Los Angeles in 1992 although much of that tenure saw him suing the city of Los Angeles for better stadium conditions as well; the Raiders moved back to Oakland in 1995. Davis was also known for publicly feuding with players, coaches and the NFL throughout his tenure. As the years passed, however, Davis and his strange ways began to overshadow his actions.

Because Davis was so passionate about his team his eccentrics began to take the forefront. But throughout Davis’ crazy moments there was also a long list of great accomplishments. Davis wanted one thing and one thing only; he wanted his team to “Just Win, Baby.” In 1988, Davis hired Art Shell, the first black head coach of the modern NFL era and revolutionized the offensive game plan. Davis also won four AFC Championships and three Super Bowls during his time.

Davis was a larger than life figure in the NFL. His legacy will never be forgotten.

-Written by FansEdge Copywriter Chris Zois