The Oakland Raiders took an enormous step in the right direction with their 2016 season, headlined by the play of Derek Carr and Khalil Mack, alongside head coach Jack Del Rio and his contagious demeanor. In terms of production on the field, the organization is in high spirits for what is to come next season.
However, the same can’t be said for the current turmoil off the field. The organization remained quiet throughout the entire season when it came to any news regarding a potential relocation. While fans continued to voice their frustrations on the field, the Raiders’ brass, including owner Mark Davis, didn’t make any announcements completely in one direction.
Alas, Davis and the organization made the formal announcement on Jan. 19, stating that they have officially filed the paperwork to seek relocation. The Raiders have developed quite the relationship with the city of Oakland, as many understand the impact it has on the city.
One public sports figure that has recently preached appreciation for Oakland is ESPN’s Mike Greenberg. When asked about the potential relocation, Greenberg stated that the Raiders coincide with the city of Oakland, via Mike & Mike on Twitter:
"It's the greatest logo and greatest team name in all of sports. It will break my heart to see them leave Oakland."
– Greeny on the Raiders pic.twitter.com/kck0p8IwJq
— Mike & Mike (@MikeAndMike) January 20, 2017
During the ‘return to greatness’ this season, NFL media members consistently stated how the NFL is much better with the Raiders winning. Playing in perhaps the most competitive division this season in the AFC West, the battle alongside the Kansas City Chiefs and Denver Broncos certainly made for some exciting football.
While Davis and the organization have filed the papers, the decision is still yet to be made. In order for the move to be made official, at least 24 of the 32 owners must vote in favor of the relocation.
Nevada recently passed a bill to approve the building of a stadium in Las Vegas with the intentions of the Raiders relocating there. $750 million of that will come from taxpayer money, with the rest coming from the NFL, Davis himself and Las Vegas casino mogul Sheldon Adelson.
Ronnie Lott and his investment group countered with their own proposal for a new stadium in Oakland, but the deal is reportedly off the table with the current situation.
Many NFL fans, including Greenberg, understand the significance that the Oakland Raiders have had on football, as their logo, franchise and organization have stood out as one of the best.
