Raiders legend Willie Brown passes at age 78

Another Raiders legend has passed. Hall of Fame cornerback and coach Willie Brown has passed away at the age of 78.

The Raiders put out the following statement on his passing.

“Willie Brown will forever be cherished as a true Raider. He exemplified the Raider spirit, originally entering the AFL as an undrafted free agent out of Grambling State before joining the Silver and Black in 1967. He remained an integral part of the organization through six decades. His legendary performance on the field changed the way the cornerback position was played and his valued guidance as a coach, mentor and administrator permeated the organization and touched countless individuals both on and off the field. Willie’s loss will leave a tremendous void, but his leadership and presence will always be a major part of the fabric of the Raiders Family.”

Brown was acquired in trade with the Denver Broncos in 1967. He would play 12 seasons with the Raiders, heading to 7 Pro Bowls and four times named an All Pro.

‘Ole Man Willie’s’ pick six in Super Bowl XI sealed the win for the Raiders and is one of the more iconic moments in all of sports.

He retired as a player following the 1978 season and joined the coaching staff and never left. He has been a part of the Raiders organization in one role or another every day for over 50 years. It won’t be the same around the Raiders facility without him. He will be sorely missed.