Raider Radness: Sports Raiders

1 Seed: Patrick Mahomes

Although he is known as the legendary Kansas City Chiefs’ Quarterback, Patrick Mahomes was originally a Texas Tech Red Raider. For three seasons, from 2014 to 2016, Mahomes led Texas Tech and set several records. He was one of the best quarterbacks that Texas Tech ever had, ranking third for touchdown passes, passing yards, attempts, and completions. Mahomes also ranked second in rushing touchdowns, third in career in yards of total offense and third in career attempts. In April of 2017, as the 10th overall pick, Mahomes was drafted into the Kansas City Chiefs.
2 Seed: John Madden

John Madden was one of the most celebrated football coaches and television commentators in football history. In 1969, Madden, 32, became the head coach of the Oakland Raiders, where he would coach for the next 10 seasons. Madden led the Raiders to eight playoff appearances, seven division titles, zero loosing seasons, and one Super Bowl. Madden retired at age 42, leaving an illustrious legacy with the Oakland Raiders. After retirement he became arguably the most recognizable voice in sports broadcasting, working in the booth for 30 years while also lending his name to one of the biggest video game franchises that's still going strong today.
3 Seed: Sheryl Swoopes

Sheryl Swoopes is now recognized as one of the greatest players in women's basketball history. She first made her name as a legendary Texas Tech Raider from 1993 to 1995, leading them to the 1993 NCAA National Championship where she scored 47 points. Swoopes ranks among Texas Tech's all-time leaders in scoring and earned multiple awards for her athletic excellence. She went on to be the very first player signed to a WNBA team, won four WNBA titles, was named MVP of the league three times, and won three Olympic gold medals as a member of USA Basketball's women's team.
4 Seed: Tom Brady

Tom Brady is known for playing for the New England Patriots for most of his football career, from 2000 to 2019. He led the Patriots to six Super Bowl victories and won five super bowl MVPs. He then went to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers towards the end of his career from 2020 to 2022, whose mascot is more of a pirate. Tom Brady is now the co-owner of the Las Vegas Raiders football team. He payed a total of $244 million to acquire 10% ownership of the football team. Tom Brady might be known as the GOAT of football, but really is not the best role model for anybody.
5 Seed: Carl Weathers

Carl Weathers's career uniquely blends professional football and action-heavy film roles. Before becoming an actor, Weathers played linebacker at San Diego State University, where he helped lead the team to a 1969 Pasadena Bowl victory. He was later drafted into the NFL and spent time with the Oakland Raiders during the early 1970s, giving him real experience in one of the most physically demanding sports. After football, Weathers transitioned into acting, where his athletic build and discipline translated naturally to the screen. His breakout role as Apollo Creed in the Rocky series required extensive boxing training and helped establish him as a symbol of strength, confidence, and competitive drive. He continued this image in Predator as Dillon, a hardened military operative whose physical presence and authority stood out in a cast filled with action stars.
6 Seed: Bo Jackson

Bo Jackson played both professional football and professional baseball, which is very rare. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1985 while playing football at Auburn. He played in the NFL for the Los Angeles Raiders and in MLB for the Kansas City Royals at the same time. He was an All-Star in baseball and a Pro Bowl player in football. His career ended early because of injury, but he is remembered for succeeding at the highest level in two major sports. He was later inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1996.
7 Seed: Al Davis

Al Davis was a major figure in American football and is best known as the longtime owner of the Oakland Raiders. He was known for his strong personality and his famous motto, "Just win, baby." Davis started as a coach and later became the youngest head coach to win an AFL championship before moving into management. He played a huge role in the AFL- NFL merger and was very influential in shaping the modern NFL. Even though he was often controversial and clashed with the league, he is remembered for his commitment to winning at all costs.
8 Seed: Marcus Allen

Marcus Allen was a running back who played in the NFL for 16 seasons; he is best known for his time with the Los Angeles Raiders. He won Super Bowl XVIII and was named the Super Bowl MVP after his iconic touchdown. Besides the Raiders, he has also played for the Kansas City Chiefs in 1993 and with the USC Trojans for his college career. Allen was also named NFL MVP and he earned a place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame naming him as one of the all-time greats!

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