Las Vegas Raiders: 15 most beloved fan favorites in franchise history
(1972-85). Cliff Branch. 3. player. 28. . WR
Most beloved Raiders of all time: 3. Cliff Branch
As previously mentioned, the Raiders have had some pretty incredible wide receivers over the course of their 60 years of existence. The next two players on this ranking are receivers, with the first being the late, great Cliff Branch.
Selected as a fourth-round draft pick in the 1972 NFL Draft, Branch got his shot with the Raiders. Despite his first two seasons being quite underwhelming, Branch finally put it all together in year three and went on to forge a great career for himself.
Branch earned a starting role with the team in 1974, immediately posting a 1,000-yard season en route to earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors.
In 183 games with the franchise, Branch recorded 501 receptions for 8,685 yards and 67 touchdowns. Those numbers all rank third in franchise history, only behind Fred Biletnikoff, who already appeared, and Tim Brown, who will be talked about shortly.
As the statistics hint at, Branch was a star wide receiver. A true “deep threat,” Branch revolutionized the position and the Raiders offense with his speed and athleticism.
Unfortunately, Branch passed away earlier this month and will never get to accept his induction to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in person (he deserved to). A man of great kindness with an infectious smile and personality, Branch is easily one of the most beloved Raiders ever.