Part 1/5:
The Legacy of Al Davis: A Pillar of the Raiders
Al Davis, the iconic figure in professional football, not only transformed the Raiders organization but left an indelible mark on the sport as a whole. His influence reached far beyond the football field; he was a teacher, a strategist, and a visionary who instilled a sense of history and purpose in the players he coached.
Both players and coaches remember the time spent with Davis as formative and crucial. His presence was enveloping; it was said that you could smell him before you saw him due to his distinctive cologne. This olfactory memory serves as a metaphor for his impact—his influence permeated the organization, creating a sense of both reverence and discipline.