Legendary Raiders quarterback Ken Stabler died Wednesday at age 69, his family confirmed late Thursday afternoon. He passed away from complications due to colon cancer.
“The Raiders are deeply saddened by the passing of the great Ken Stabler,” said Owner Mark Davis. “He was a cherished member of the Raider family and personified what it means to be a Raider. He wore the Silver and Black with Pride and Poise and will continue to live in the hearts of Raider fans everywhere. Our sincerest thoughts and prayers go out to Kenny’s family.”
The signal caller affectionately known as “The Snake” spent 15 seasons in the NFL but was best known for a decade with the Silver and Black, a span that included a victory in Super Bowl XI in 1977.
The four-time Pro Bowler was 69-26-1 during his time with the Raiders, when he became known as a player who performed well in the clutch. He took the Raiders to the playoffs six times.
Longtime Raiders coach John Madden issued the following statement late Thursday:
“I was head coach of the Raiders the entire time Kenny was there and he led us to a whole bunch of victories including one in Super Bowl XI. I've often said, If I had one drive to win a game to this day, and I had a quarterback to pick, I would pick Kenny. Snake was a lot cooler than I was. He was a perfect quarterback and a perfect Raider. When you think about the Raiders you think about Ken Stabler. Kenny loved life. It is a sad day for all Raiders.”