Al Davis was mourned by all levels of the Patriots organization -- ownership, coaches and players -- when word of his death began spreading on Saturday.
From owner Robert Kraft:
I was deeply saddened to learn of Al Davis death this morning. Al was an American Football League pioneer and a legendary hall of fame contributor to the National Football League. He was one of the first owners to welcome me into the NFL in 1994, which was a great thrill for me personally and an introduction that I will never forget. I always admired his passion for the game and enjoyed listening to his historical account of some of the games most memorable moments. He had a unique style and a certain aura about him that would be hard to ever replicate. When engaged in any discussion, he always spoke with great conviction and could be very persuasive.
We shared a bond as two Massachusetts natives in the NFL, something that he pointed out to me in that initial introduction. I feel fortunate to have spent time with him just last Sunday before our game against the Raiders. Not knowing when I would see him again, I told him how much I appreciated all he had done for the game of football and thanked him for all that he had done for me. He informed me of the Raiders plans to honor my sweetheart with a moment of silence before our game, which was a touching and heartfelt gesture. Little did I know that just one week later, we would be doing the same in his honor. Its very sad.
On behalf of the entire Kraft family, I want to extend our heartfelt condolences to the Davis family, the Oakland Raiders organization and all of the Raiders fans who are mourning his loss. His presence will be missed, but his legacy will live forever.
From coach Bill Belichick:
While I am saddened by the news of Mr. Davis passing, I will forever be heartened and enriched by the many personal interactions I had with him over the years. His winning, his football knowledge, his passion for his team and contributions to the league made him one of the all-time greats. By striving for the highest level of excellence with our respective teams and the game itself, we will be honoring the memory of Al Davis.
New England Patriots
And, via Twitter, from Bianca Wilfork, wife of defensive tackle Vince Wilfork:
"The man the myth the legend has passed away RIP Al Davis prayers for the entire Raider Nation" . . . "If you know anything about football, regardless of your favorite team you know that the entire NFL has lost a legend in Al Davis."