The Raiders community is mourning the loss of one of its iconic members, George Atkinson, who passed away at the age of 78; Atkinson, known affectionately as "The Hitman," was a celebrated defensive force for the Oakland-based team during the 1970s, playing a pivotal role in their Super Bowl XI victory.
An outpouring of remembrance has surfaced following the announcement of Atkinson's death today, signaling the breadth of respect he commanded both on-field and off. Atkinson joined the then-Oakland Raiders in 1968 after being drafted from Morris Brown College. He quickly established himself as a fearless defensive back and a vital component of the team's revered defense while also earning consecutive AFL All-Star honors in his first two seasons, according to a tribute by the News3LV.
In its homage to the late player, the Raiders highlighted not just Atkinson's gridiron prowess but also his enduring legacy within the organization, stating, "George’s contributions as a friend and mentor to everyone in the Raiders organization continued long after his playing career, and his genuine personality and wonderful sense of humor will be dearly missed by everyone who knew him," a sentiment firmly echoed by another piece on the sad event by 8 News Now.
The loss of Atkinson comes at a somber time for the Raiders family, following the recent passing of Carol Davis, widow of the late owner Al Davis and mother of current owner Mark Davis. Her death marks the end of a generation integral to the Raiders’ storied history and underscores the deep familial bond within the organization. The Raiders extended their condolences to Atkinson’s family, highlighting his lifelong connection to the football fraternity—a career that spanned 144 regular-season games, 30 interceptions, and four touchdowns scored on turnovers.
As details of Atkinson's death emerge, the community continues celebrating his indelible mark on the sport, affirming that while his tenure on the field may have ended with his retirement in 1979, his influence within the Raiders and the broader NFL sphere endures.
