Oakland Raiders Owner Al Davis Dies at 82

Oakland Raiders owner and former coach of the Raiders Al Davis died today in his home at the age of 82. The cause of death has not been released yet.

Davis is best known for being one of the most controversial owners in sports and for transforming the Raiders into a winning team under his ownership. The team has won the Super Bowl three times since 1972, when he took control of the team. This is often credited to the physical style of play and intimidation tactics advocated by Davis. He was also the commisioner of the AFL, which merged with the NFL. Davis vocally opposed this merger. He was was also the only person in professional football history to have been a scout, assistant coach, head coach, general manager, commissioner and owner.

A video tribute has been posted to the Raiders website. Many have also taken to Twitter to remember him. Shaquille O'Neal (@Shaq) tweeted "Rest in piece al davis, you will be missed sir, we lost two pioneers this week...aaaaaagh," alluding to the death of Apple founder Steve Jobs this week.

Pete Carroll (@PeteCarroll) tweeted, "The football world has lost an icon and visionary in Al Davis, a man who revolutionized the game. Condolences to his family and friends."

What are your thoughts and how will you remember Davis? tell us in comments.