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The 10 best Raiders players of all time showcase a legacy of excellence in the NFL. The Raiders, a franchise steeped in tradition and success, have produced some of the most memorable athletes in football history.
With three Super Bowl championships under their belt, this iconic team has seen countless stars shine on the field. This rich history complicates the task of determining the greatest players to ever don the silver and black.
FOX Sports Research took on the challenge of ranking the top ten Raiders of all time, meticulously analyzing statistics and achievements to compile this list.
While some selections may seem obvious, there are also unexpected names that have earned their place among the elite.
How does your favorite Raider measure up in this ranking?
Let’s explore the list:
10. Charles Woodson (1998-2005, 2013-2015)
Charles Woodson, selected fourth overall in the 1998 NFL Draft, quickly made a name for himself by winning Defensive Rookie of the Year. His early career was marked by an impressive record of 63 wins in 64 games. Over his career, Woodson earned eight All-Pro selections and nine Pro Bowl appearances, culminating in his 2009 Defensive Player of the Year award while playing for the Green Bay Packers. With 13 defensive touchdowns and 65 interceptions, he ranks among the best in NFL history. Woodson’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021 solidified his legacy.
9. Ken Stabler (1970-1979)
Ken “The Snake” Stabler led the Raiders to their inaugural Super Bowl victory in the 1976 season. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in quarterback wins with 69. Stabler’s 1974 season was particularly remarkable, as he claimed both the MVP and Offensive Player of the Year honors, throwing 26 touchdown passes and guiding the Raiders to an impressive 11-2 record. His postseason achievements include leading the team to five consecutive conference championship games, a record that stood until Tom Brady surpassed it. Stabler’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016 further cemented his status as a Raiders legend.
8. Willie Brown (1967-1978)
7. Ted Hendricks (1975-1983)
Ted Hendricks, known as “the mad stork,” is celebrated as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history. A four-time Super Bowl champion, three of those victories came with the Raiders. Hendricks was a six-time All-Pro selection and an eight-time Pro Bowl pick. His impressive durability is reflected in his record of playing 215 consecutive games, including seven AFC title games. With 26 career interceptions, four safeties, and numerous unofficial sacks, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1990.
6. Tim Brown (1988-2003)
5. Howie Long (1981-1993)
Howie Long is a true Raider through and through, having spent his entire 13-year career with the team. A defensive stalwart, he played a pivotal role in the 1983 Super Bowl championship. Long was selected for eight Pro Bowls and earned All-Pro honors multiple times. With 84 sacks to his name, he ranks second in franchise history since the statistic became official in 1982. Long also made history as one of only 17 players to record five sacks in a single game, a feat he accomplished against Washington in 1983. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.
4. Marcus Allen (1982-1992)
3. Art Shell (1968-1982)
Art Shell, a two-time Super Bowl champion, dedicated his entire 15-year career to the Raiders. He started 169 games as an offensive tackle and was recognized as an All-Pro for six consecutive years. Shell’s contributions extended beyond playing, as he later served as the team’s head coach, leading them to a 12-4 record in 1990. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989 reflects his significant impact on the franchise.
2. Jim Otto (1960-1974)
Jim Otto is often regarded as the greatest center in NFL history. Over 15 seasons with the Raiders, he amassed 10 All-AFL selections and two All-Pro honors. Otto played every game during the AFL’s first decade and was a key figure in the team’s seven divisional championships from 1967 to 1974. Upon retirement, he held the record for 210 consecutive games started and 308 total games played as a Raider. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1980 solidified his legendary status.
1. Gene Upshaw (1967-1981)
Gene Upshaw played all 217 of his career games with the Raiders, starting 207 consecutively. His remarkable consistency earned him First or Second-team All-League honors for 11 straight years, along with seven Pro Bowl selections. As a two-time Super Bowl champion, Upshaw’s postseason experience included seven AFC title games and three AFL championship appearances. His longevity and performance made him the only player to start on championship teams in both the AFL and NFL. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.
HONORABLE MENTION
- Fred Biletnikof
- Jack Tatum
- Cliff Branch
- Lester Hayes
- Bo Jackson
- Jim Plunkett
- Ray Guy
