In what was a special day for the Raiders and Raider Nation, we look back at the respect paid to the late Al Davis.
First off, we hope Raider Nation had an excellent Fourth of July!
The Raiders and their players celebrated American Independence yesterday, just 10 weeks out of the start of NFL Football. It’s a great day for remembrance and relaxation. It was also the birthday of a sports icon.
Al Davis would’ve celebrated his 92nd birthday yesterday. It was a special day for the team’s fanbase and the Davis family. Meanwhile, the team also took to Twitter to celebrate the birth of America.
Wishing you and yours a happy Independence Day, #RaiderNation 🎆 pic.twitter.com/voJK6d1Nbi
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) July 4, 2021
Davis was honored, paid tribute to in a slew of Tweets by fans. Allegiant Stadium also lit the flame in honor of the man who laid the foundation for everything.
Al Davis would've been 92 years old today.
We remember him and keep his spirit alive. pic.twitter.com/OVCDlA2rxY
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) July 4, 2021
Bryan Edwards had a special message for fans on the 4th of July as well.
https://twitter.com/B__ED89/status/1411638090377175041?s=20
‘Mad’ Maxx Crosby chimed in for Raider Nation yesterday.
Happy 4th Of July Everyone🎉
— 🦅MaddMaxx🦅 (@CrosbyMaxx) July 4, 2021
Team legend Rich Gannon celebrated by sharing some words of wisdom with the Twitterverse.
Happy Independence Day! I hope you can enjoy the day with your family and friends and realize just how blessed we are to live in the greatest country in the world!
— Rich Gannon (@RichGannon12) July 4, 2021
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Remembering the Raiders legend
Al Davis was many things. A maverick, a legend, an iconic figurehead, the father of the Silver and Black brand, a pioneer for civil progress, and most importantly, a winner. He singlehandedly shaped not only the future of the Raiders but the league itself.
From his roots in the AFL to his ownership of the Raiders, everything he did was rooted in an obsession for excellence. A commitment.
His presence was undeniable. His legacy is titanic. Yesterday, the Raiders celebrated Al Davis
Rich Eisen remembered Al Davis:
Born on this day: United States of America, Al Davis and George M. Steinbrenner III pic.twitter.com/xbHSI8t5Dn
— Rich Eisen (@richeisen) July 4, 2021
Michael Lombardi chimed in with thoughts about ‘Uncle Al.’
Happy Birthday to Raider legend and owner Al Davis, a few of the fireworks are in his honor.
— Michael Lombardi (@mlombardiNFL) July 4, 2021
Finally, Josh Dubow of the Associated Press (a favorite among Raider Nation) put the greatness of Al Davis into perspective.
Today would have been Al Davis' 92nd birthday. Here's the #Raiders winning percentages before he arrived, during his tenure and after his death:
Pre-Al: .214, 3rd worst, 0 playoff wins
With Al: .568, 3rd best. 25 playoff wins, 3 SB titles
Post-Al: .391, 6th worst, 0 playoff wins— Josh Dubow (@JoshDubowAP) July 4, 2021
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*Top Photo: George Gojkovich/Getty Images