Getty Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr.
Late on Saturday night, the Oakland Raiders were hit with the devastating news that legendary wide receiver Cliff Branch, passed away at 71. Considered to be one of the first great deep ball threats in the NFL, Branch’s speed and big-play ability was more than a bit memorable.
He has long been thought of as one of the biggest Hall of Fame snubs in NFL history. Just like his former teammate Ken Stabler, Branch will have to get in posthumously. Though he has not been immortalized with a Hall of Fame induction just yet, there’s no doubt that the Raiders have not and will not ever forget his legacy.
Raiders Staff & Players Honor Cliff Branch at Training Camp
The team is in the midst of 2019 training camp, but that hasn’t stopped them from making sure to honor the recently deceased wide receiver. Players, staff members and coaches have been seen sporting the famous No. 21 jersey that Branch wore, as the Raiders revealed.
A tribute to a legend.
Tyrell Williams getting props from fans for wearing No. 21 in honor of Cliff Branch. #Raiders
Most notably, quarterback Derek Carr and wide receiver Tyrell Williams wore number 21 jerseys at practice. It’s fitting for Williams to sport Branch’s jersey because he is also a speedy deep threat that will likely make some big plays in the silver and black. Branch has stayed close to the team throughout his life. He was actually at the combine for the Raiders helping them scout rookie talent. The All-Pro wideout claimed that he ran a 4.2-second 40-yard dash back when he was entering the NFL.
“I ran a 4.2 40,” said Branch when asked what his fastest time was. “Back in the 70s when I got drafted by the Raiders, we didn’t have a combine. Scouts would come to the university. I got timed at a 4.2.”
That fact would place Branch among the fastest players in NFL history. That shouldn’t come as a surprise to anyone who’s seen him play. Even in his later years in the NFL, he was still faster than most players. The three-time Super Bowl champion spent his entire career with the Raiders and was beloved by fans, players and others.
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Raiders Legends Mourn Cliff Branch’s Passing
Former members of the Raiders joined in on mourning the all-time great. Legends such as Tim Brown, Lincoln Kennedy and Ted Hendricks took to social media to honor Branch.
In a time of celebration for fellow players being inducted into the pro football HOF I’m saddened to hear about the passing of cliff branch. Another great player that won’t be here to see himself inducted. Love you Cliff @Raiders
The world lost a good man. Cliff Branch was not only a great raider, but he was a good friend. Always positive and good company, even through tough times. One of the best receivers to ever play the game. One of the best guys I’ve ever known. RIP#21 love you.
I’m saddened to hear the news about Cliff Branch. He was a true Raider and will be greatly missed. #21
RIP my dear friend and team mate. Words are not enough to soften this blow to our Raider Alumni family.
The Raiders like to keep their alumni close and Branch was no exception. Perhaps the Raider hurt most by Branch’s passing is team owner Mark Davis. Davis described Branch as his “best friend” in a brief statement.
“Cliff Was My Best Friend.. I Will Miss Him Dearly”
-MD-
For those who are unaware, Davis went to battle with his father, the iconic Al Davis back in the 1980s to ensure that Branch received a proper contract. It turned into a huge fight which led to Al kicking Mark out of the house and they didn’t speak for a period. Davis will likely have more to say on the matter in the near future. As they have in the past, the team will almost certainly find a way to honor Branch this coming season.
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Derek Carr & Raiders Honor Cliff Branch at Practice [LOOK]