Al Davis was a polarizing figure in the NFL and was well-known for going after the “mis-fit” players and “speed” guys. Al Davis was a commissioner of the American Football League and was an important part of the NFL/AFL merger. Davis first became a part owner of the Raiders before becoming the primary owner of the team.

Al Davis was one of the most recognizable people in the NFL; his black and silver track suits and sweat suits were well known by every NFL fan. Davis missed the Raiders trip to Buffalo in Week 2. It was only the second game he had missed since the team returned to Oakland in 1995.

Inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1992, Davis is the lone member to have been an assistant coach, head coach, general manager, owner and commissioner.

The club announced his death on its website with the statement:

AL DAVIS
JULY 4, 1929 – OCT. 8, 2011

The cause of death and details on Davis’ passing were not immediately available. The Raiders play Houston this weekend.