Who Could Replace Al Davis as the Face of the Raiders?

With the passing of Raider legend Al Davis, the organization has a hole in its leadership. While some fans believe Davis held back the Raiders through lackluster drafts and poor free agency moves, no one can question him as the symbol and face of the team since the mid 1960s.

But who will become the new face of the Raiders? Who could replace Al Davis as symbol of the Silver and Black?

John Madden

One possible option is legendary coach and commentator John Madden. Madden coached the Raiders to their first Super Bowl title in 1977.

Madden would be a great addition to the Raiders' front office in some capacity, possibly in a similar role that Mike Holmgren serves for the Browns. Madden’s age is a concern, as he turned 75 in April.

Howie Long

Howie Long is one of the most respected television analysts in the NFL today. Long could assume the mantle as spokesperson for one of the NFL’s proudest franchises.

Long's interest in his current job might prevent him from taking such a daunting assignment.

Darren McFadden

Another option is running back Darren McFadden. McFadden is rapidly becoming one of the top running backs in the NFL.

In today's society, the best bet to become "Mr. Raider" might be one of its current players.

McFadden’s jersey ranks 17^th on the NFLshop.com list of jersey sales. The Raiders’ national following, combined with McFadden’s youth, could fill the leadership void left by Davis.

Hue Jackson

What about current Oakland head coach Hue Jackson? Jackson’s energetic style and successful offensive background have greatly improved the Raiders thus far in 2011.

Jackson’s teams could take advantage of the weak AFC West and be a force for years to come. A fourth world championship would definitely help block out the enormous shadow of Al Davis.

No One

The real answer may be no one.

Davis is an NFL legend. He served as head coach and owner of the team. He was one of the chief architects behind the NFL-AFL merger. His fight with Pete Rozelle in the early 1980s to move to Los Angeles is the stuff of legends.

No one may be able to replace the legendary Davis, who for so many years instructed his Raider teams to “Just Win Baby.”