The Raiders have a rich and legendary NFL history, built by iconic players who embodied toughness, grit and undeniable charisma. We’re going to highlight the top 10 players who shaped their legacy with the Raiders and defined their greatest as part of one of the league’s most iconic franchises.
Top 10 players who defined the Raiders
1. Ken “The Snake” Stabler (QB)
Famously referred to as “The Snake”, Ken Stabler was the ultimate clutch quarterback who helped the Raiders win their first Super Bowl in 1976. He became one of the most recognizable players in team history because of his ability to lead, remain composed and perform well under duress. In 1974, a season distinguished by his accurate passing and management of the Raiders’ attack, Stabler was named NFL MVP.
No one embodied what it meant to be a Raider more than Stabler.
2. Fred Biletnikoff (WR)
A Hall of Fame wide receiver, Fred Biletnikoff is well known for his superb route running and ability to make clutch catches when it counted most. Biletnikoff played his entire 14-year career with the Raiders. The Biletnikoff Award, which recognizes the best college wide receiver each year, is a tribute to Biletnikoff’s accomplishments.
3. Howie Long (DE)
Howie Long, one of the most dominant defensive ends of his era, spent his entire 13-season career with the Raiders. Long was a crucial contributor to the Raiders’ win in Super Bowl XVIII and was selected to eight Pro Bowls. He was a fierce pass rusher and an unrelenting force against the run. His combination of size, speed and technique made him one of the NFL’s top defensive linemen, and his leadership in the trenches helped elevate the Raiders to elite status.
4. Tim Brown (WR)
Considered by many to be among the best wide receivers in NFL history, Tim Brown was a crucial member of the Raiders for most of his remarkable 17-season career. Brown, a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and a nine-time Pro Bowler, owns almost all of the Raiders’ key receiving records, including catches, yards and touchdowns. Brown became one of the greatest players in NFL history after winning the Heisman Trophy in 1987, while playing for Notre Dame.
5. Marcus Allen (RB)
From 1982 to 1992, Marcus Allen, a powerful and adaptable running back, was one of the cornerstones of the Los Angeles Raiders. Allen was known for his ability to perform in crucial moments, established his legendary status on January 22, 1984, in Super Bowl XVIII by putting on one of the best performances in the history of the game. Allen rushed for an incredible 191 yards, added 18 receiving yards and scored two touchdowns, leading the Raiders to a decisive 38–9 victory over the Washington Redskins.
6. Gene Upshaw (OL)
Gene Upshaw played 15 seasons with the Raiders, from 1967 to 1981. He was a major contributor to the team’s success, helping the Raiders win Super Bowls XI and XV, and earning seven nominations to the Pro Bowl. He was one of the most durable offensive linemen in NFL history and started Super Bowls in three distinct decades.
7. Jim Otto (C)
For 15 seasons, Jim Otto, an exceptional center for the Raiders, served as the backbone of their offensive line and was selected to 12 Pro Bowls. Otto, who is renowned for his leadership and tenacity, was instrumental in the team’s early achievements, which included their first AFL Championship in 1967. His dedication and physicality established the Raiders’ gritty, hard-nosed style of play. Otto sadly passed away in 2024, but he left a lasting impact as one of the best players in team history.
8. Art Shell (OT)
As a player and eventually as a coach, Art Shell laid some of the groundwork in Raiders’ history. During his 15 seasons as an offensive lineman, he was selected to eight Pro Bowls and gained recognition for his remarkable strength, skill and reliability. Shell helped create the Raiders’ powerful offensive line and protected quarterbacks during the team’s Super Bowl XV victory. In 1989, Shell became the first African-American head coach in the NFL’s modern era.
9. Willie Brown (CB)
Willie Brown was an elite cornerback whose career with the Raiders spanned from 1963 to 1978, leaving an indelible mark on the team’s defense. Renowned for his exceptional football IQ, Brown had the ability to read quarterbacks and disrupt passing plays, amassing 39 interceptions over his career. His most memorable moment came in Super Bowl XI, when he intercepted Fran Tarkenton and returned it 75 yards for a touchdown, a pivotal play in securing the Raiders’ first championship.
10. Charles Woodson (CB/S)
Charles Woodson might have played his best years with the Green Bay Packers, but he’ll be remembered as a Raider. Woodson ended his career in Oakland where it started and remains one of the organization’s most beloved former players.
Among others, players like Lester Hayes, Todd Christensen, Dave Casper, Jim Plunkett, and Bo Jackson were also legendary Raiders, and the greatest wide receiver to ever play the game, Jerry Rice, even spent four years with the team.
A rookie with the team now in the top 3 of Rookie of the Year odds, and the trajectory of Brock Bowers’ career could one day make him one of the greats to wear Silver & Black.
Arguably the greatest tight of all time paid Bowers a huge compliment in October.
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Bo Jackson’s name isn’t on the list? That isn’t right. Who put this list out? Obviously they are bias
I really can’t argue with any of the selections. Narrowing it down to ten, is not a good mandate with a team as iconic as the Raiders have been. Hendricks, Tooz, Millen, Hayes, Tatum, Casper, Plunkett, those names just flow freely without much thought.
Just to set the record straight Stabler’s nickname was “Snake“ and not “The Snake”.