Raiders legend Willie Brown dies at the age of 78

Hall of Fame cornerback Willie Brown, who helped lead the Oakland Raiders to their first Super Bowl title, died on Tuesday. He was 78.

The Raiders and Pro Football Hall of Fame announced Willie Brown’s death but did not reveal a cause. Brown was fighting cancer.

“The entire Hall of Fame family mourns the loss of a great man,” Hall of Fame president David Baker said in a statement. ”Willie Brown was the epitome of the Raiders motto of ‘commitment to excellence’ that was integral to the team’s sustained success. He embodied virtues like passion, integrity, perseverance and always led by example. His character, on and off the field, made all those around him better.”

Al Davis traded the Denver Broncos for Brown in 1967, which is still one of the best moves ever in Franchise history.

Brown had a Hall of Fame career, and his 75 interception return against Minnesota helped the Raiders win their first Super Bowl in 1976.

Rest in Peace Willie, you will be missed!

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