Two former Las Vegas Raiders received hefty praise by way of ESPN recently—two players who once wore the Silver and Black were deemed some of the best athletes this century.
The publication released an article highlighting the best athletes of this century so far with amazing talent. The list included two former Raiders, Charles Woodson and Randy Moss. Moss entered the list at 27, and Woodson inched his way in at 100.
Both players were very qualified to be on the list, and this seems to be a very commendable recognition. This list also features athletes like Lionel Messi, LeBron James, and Serena Williams.
Randy Moss: The Great Raiders Receiver That Never Was…
Moss is thought to be among the greatest wide receivers in football history. There had never been a combination like his stature, speed, and jumping prowess. Because of his irrepressible nature, he coined the verb “mossed.” To describe a situation in which a receiver outruns a defender and leaps higher than him to snag a pass, this expression is still in use today.
Moss’s career began in Minnesota, where he totaled 9,316 receiving yards and led the league in touchdowns twice. He also won Rookie of the Year and a Pro Bowl in his first three seasons. After seven seasons, he switched time zones and played for the Raiders starting in 2005.
In Oakland, Moss was not as successful but was still productive, as he racked up 1,558 yards and 11 touchdowns. Despite an initial honeymoon period following his acquisition by then-owner Al Davis, the relationship soured. Without an adequate quarterback to get him the ball, Moss soon wanted out.
After two seasons, he headed to a couple other NFL teams, including a notable run with the New England Patriots from 2007 through 2010, before retiring in 2012.
In the end, Moss was a six-time Pro Bowler, four-time First Team All-Pro, and 2018 Hall of Fame inductee.
Charles Woodson: The Pinnacle Of Silver & Black Aura
Woodson is undoubtedly one of the best defensive talents to ever touch a football field. Not only is he the only defensive player to win the Heisman ever, but he is also an NFL Hall of Famer. Woodson got his career started by going to the Pro Bowl in four straight seasons.
What makes Woodson so legendary is how versatile of a weapon he was on defense. His player evolution is remarkable; he was dynamic with the ball as soon as it touched his hands. As a result, Woodson was occasionally incorporated into the offensive game plan. Furthermore, Woodson led the league in defensive touchdowns (3) with his abilities in 2009.
His placement on this list solidifies Woodson as one of the best draft picks in Raiders history. He began and ended his career with the team, showing his loyalty. Woodson’s contributions have positioned the Raiders defensive back among the greatest athletes in American history.
