Raiders: Ranking the top 5 linebackers in franchise history
By Allen Settle
2. Rod Martin, Raiders
Rod Martin, like Villapiano, played in an era before tackling numbers were recorded. The 12th-round pick was loyal to the Raiders’ franchise in each of his 12 NFL seasons.
During that time, he suited up for 165 games and recorded 33 sacks and 14 interceptions. He was named to two Pro Bowl rosters, was a first-team All-Pro in 1984, and a three-time second-team All-Pro from 1981-1983.
The prime of his career also coincided with two Raiders’ Super Bowl victories in 1980 and 1983. Martin was the perfect picture of longevity, consistency, loyalty, and production during his time in silver and black.
1. Ted Hendricks, Raiders
As a point of note, Ted Hendricks marks a new tier of elite linebacking talents. His resume is chock-full of impressive accomplishments. In terms of the athletes on this list, he is in a league of his own.
Hendricks was an eight-time Pro Bowler, a six-time All-Pro, and a member of the NFL All-Decade teams for both the 1970s and 1980s. He also won three Super Bowls as a member of the Raiders (four total during his career).
The former Miami stud would have an even more impressive resume had his statistical achievements been recorded as intricately as they are today.
However, make no mistake, no linebacker in franchise history can match Hendricks’ combination of individual and team success.