Al Davis Death: NFL World Reacts to Passing of Raiders Icon

One of the most polarizing figures in all of sports, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis died today at the age of 82. Love him or hate him, Davis was a true visionary and one of the driving forces of the American Football League, which eventually merged with the NFL.

Davis had an ownership stake in the Raiders since 1966 and wore many hats in the world of football. Not only was he an owner, but he also served as an assistant coach, a head coach, a general manager and commissioner of the AFL.

While many viewed Davis as a meddling owner, he was undoubtedly a trailblazer as he was the first to hire an African American head coach, a Hispanic head coach and a female CEO in the NFL. Davis was ahead of his time in that regard, and he helped the NFL evolve in many respects.

Davis will be remembered favorably, particularly by those involved in the NFL. Here is what a host of NFL owners, coaches, players, reporters and other personnel have been saying in the wake of this tragic news.

Oakland Raiders wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey:

Former Denver Broncos quarterback John Elway:

NFL Network Reporter Jason La Canfora: 

Former Detroit Lions running back Barry Sanders:

New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick: 

"

While I am saddened by the news of Mr. Davis' passing, I will forever be heartened and enriched by the many personal interactions I had with him over the years. His winning, his football knowledge, his passion for his team and contributions to the league made him one of the all-time greats. By striving for the highest level of excellence with our respective teams and the game itself, we will be honoring the memory of Al Davis.

"

ESPN NFL reporter Adam Schefter:

Oakland Raiders full back Marcell Reese:

Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll:

Former New York Jets quarterback Joe Namath:

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones:

"

In my eyes, so much of his legacy will be defined by the loyalty he had for the men who played for the Raiders and the love that they had for him. That was a bond that extended beyond the playing years and lasted lifetimes. His contributions and expertise were inspiring at every level—coach, general manager, owner and commissioner. There was no element of the game of professional football for which Al did not enjoy a thorough and complete level of knowledge and passion. He welcomed me and my family to the NFL 23 years ago and was a trusted friend for all of our time in professional football. We will miss him deeply and we are thinking of Mark and Carol at this difficult time.

"

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay:

Oakland Raiders linebacker Quentin Groves:

Denver Broncos wide receiver Eddie Royal:

Oakland Raiders defensive end Jarvis Moss:

USC head coach and former Oakland Raiders head coach Lane Kiffin:

"

I was very saddened this morning to learn of the passing of Al Davis. He was an iconic figure in the history of professional football and built a truly legendary franchise with the Raiders. I consider myself fortunate to have known him and to have been a part of that Raiders history. Even though our relationship did not end the way I would have liked, I have nothing but the greatest respect for Mr. Davis and I truly appreciate the opportunity he afforded me and so many young coaches, players and staff. My thoughts go out to his family and to the family and fans of the Raiders past and present.

"

Seattle Seahawks and former Oakland Raiders tight end Zach Miller:

NFL commissioner Roger Goodell: