NFL, Raider Nation Mourns Loss of Owner Al Davis

photo via forall2envy.blogspot.com

The National Football League is mourning the loss of one of the most controversial, enigmatic, and strangely endearing figures in professional sports ownership.

Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis passed away Saturday at the age of 82.

Davis has owned the Bay Area franchise in various capacities since 1972.  During that time, the team won Super Bowl titles in 1976, 1980, and 1983.  He was also elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992.

Known for many things, particularly his vindictive nature,  Davis openly clashed with his head coaches. I can recall in the late 1980s when he feuded with former coach Mike Shanahan, and his recent squabbles with Lane Kiffin, who coached the team from 2007 to 2008.

Al Davis, you will be missed.  The National Football League would not be the powerhouse pro sports league that it is today without the contributions you've made.

"Just Win Baby"

-Turnbull