The Las Vegas Raiders, who have recently relocated, have a rich franchise history in both Oakland and Los Angeles. Throughout the years, numerous legendary players have donned the Raiders’ uniform, but few stand out like former star center Jim Otto.
Otto dedicated all 15 seasons of his NFL career to the then-Oakland Raiders, consistently ranking as the league’s premier center. Sadly, Otto passed away at 86 on Sunday night, prompting the Raiders and their fans to mourn the loss of one of their greatest players.
Otto was part of the Raiders from the very beginning, being selected in the 1960 AFL Draft during the team’s inaugural year. He quickly established himself as a top offensive lineman, earning first-team All-Pro honors as a rookie, although he was notably overlooked for the Pro Bowl.
Otto’s career was marked by 12 Pro Bowl appearances and 10 first-team All-Pro honors, along with two second-team All-Pro recognitions. He also secured an AFL championship with the Raiders in 1967, building one of the most illustrious careers for an offensive lineman in NFL history.
As the Raiders transitioned to the NFL, Otto made a couple of attempts to win a Super Bowl, but fell short. Despite this, he remained an elite center until his retirement after the 1974 season, even though his performance slightly declined in his final years.
Otto’s resilience was evident as he started 210 consecutive games, enduring numerous injuries that resulted in over 70 surgeries and the amputation of his right leg in 2007. Otto’s toughness was legendary, though the physical toll of football eventually caught up with him.
While the cause of Otto’s death was not disclosed, his passing leaves a void for fans who will grieve his loss in the coming days. Otto’s legacy as one of the greatest football players was firmly established long before his retirement, and his contributions to the Raiders and the sport will be remembered for many years, even though it’s been half a century since he last played.
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