The entire NFL world was in mourning this past weekend as former Oakland and Los Angeles Raiders legend Cliff Branch passed away at age 71, the team announced. The reason of his death is not known, but no foul play is believed to be involved.
Branch was drafted by the Raiders in the fourth round in 1972 out of Colorado and spent his entire 14-year career in the Raiders organization, playing 10 years in Oakland and four in Los Angeles.
The former track star ranks third in franchise history in receptions (501), receiving yards (8,695) and touchdown catches (67), with only Hall of Famers Tim Brown and Biletnikoff ahead of him.
Branch was named a Pro Bowler four times in his career while also being named an All-Pro three times. He was one of only six players to play on all three Raiders Super Bowl championship teams in 1976, 1980 and 1983.
After his passing, the Raiders released the following statement:
“Cliff Branch touched the lives of generations of Raiders fans. His loss leaves an eternal void for the Raiders Family, but his kindness and loving nature will be fondly remembered forever. Cliff’s on-field accomplishments are well documented and undeniably Hall of Fame worthy, but his friendship and smile are what the Raider Nation will always cherish.”
Additionally, many current and former Raiders players, as well as owner Mark Davis, took to social media to mourn his death.
"Cliff Was My Best Friend.. I Will Miss Him Dearly"
-MD-— Oakland Raiders (@Raiders) August 4, 2019
@Raiders My heart is broken hearing the news of Cliff Branch passing! A few years back we shared the stage for the induction into the CAHOF. It's a moment now even more special. #Rip21
— Tim Brown (@81TimBrown) August 4, 2019
In a time of celebration for fellow players being inducted into the pro football HOF I’m saddened to hear about the passing of cliff branch. Another great player that won’t be here to see himself inducted. Love you Cliff @Raiders
— Charles Woodson (@CharlesWoodson) August 4, 2019
RIP, Raiders Legend. The Great Cliff Branch has moved on. #BePeace
— Carl Weathers (@TheCarlWeathers) August 4, 2019
I’m saddened to hear the news about Cliff Branch. He was a true Raider and will be greatly missed. #21
— Jon Condo (@JonCondo) August 4, 2019
RIP my dear friend and team mate. Words are not enough to soften this blow to our Raider Alumni family.
— Ted Hendricks (@HOFTed83) August 4, 2019
The world lost a good man. Cliff Branch was not only a great raider, but he was a good friend. Always positive and good company, even through tough times. One of the best receivers to ever play the game. One of the best guys I’ve ever known. RIP#21 love you.
— Lincoln Kennedy (@LKennedy72) August 4, 2019
🖤#12 to #21 was magic. Brothers on and off of the field. @Raiders pic.twitter.com/NHRIsoISqe
— Ken Stabler (@TheKenStabler) August 4, 2019
From my Dad and the rest of the Villapiano family… “Rest in Peace to the best wife receiver that should be in the Hall of Fame. We love you you. Rest In Peace, Buddy.” #CliffBranch @Raiders pic.twitter.com/AGtcoVDu6b
— VILLAPIANO (@VillapianOk) August 4, 2019
Rest In Peace to a true @Raiders Legend Cliff Branch. Whenever you saw me you would always tell me how much you loved the way I played the game. Going to miss those interactions with you. RIP #21 #OnceARaiderAlwaysARaider
— Kirk Morrison (@kirkmorrison) August 4, 2019
RIP Cliff 🖤
— Jalen Richard (@RocketRich30) August 4, 2019
Rip Cliff🙌🏼 https://t.co/aT1kPDrzUo
— Madd Maxx Crosby (@CrosbyMaxx) August 4, 2019
