The Raiders franchise is considered one of the most notable in professional football, with much of its legacy tied to the leadership and vision of the late Al Davis. Davis is often credited with shaping not only the Raiders, but also making significant contributions to the National Football League as a whole.
Former Pro Bowl cornerback Nnamdi Asomugha reflected on his time with the Raiders and his relationship with Davis. Drafted by Davis and the Raiders in the first round of the 2003 NFL Draft, Asomugha spent eight seasons with the team, earning All-Pro honors twice and making three Pro Bowl appearances.
During an appearance on The Rich Eisen Show, Asomugha discussed his early impressions of Davis: “Al, as we would walk through … you knew when he was coming down the hall. Guys would turn their different ways, and people were going into doors that were not even to anything.”
Asomugha also described how his perception evolved over time: “Eventually, when you realize that he is a real person, you stop fearing him. There was a point in my second year when he pulled me to the side and we started talking, and then for the rest of my time in Oakland, he and I would meet every couple of weeks on a Monday, we would meet in his office for about 10-15 minutes.”
He added insights into Davis’s leadership style: “He was so smart, you could not really pick his brain; he was always picking yours. Even if you did not think he was … He wanted to know what I know about the game of football.”
Davis’s impact on football is still noted today, as many recall both his innovative decisions within management and coaching as well as his influence on players like Asomugha.
