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Oakland Raiders: Top 20 Draft Picks In Franchise History

By Erik Lambert

Sep 13, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) stands in the team huddle before taking a snap against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 13, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) stands in the team huddle before taking a snap against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first quarter at O.co Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-USA TODAY Sports /
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#4:  Gene Upshaw (9th overall, 1967)

Gene Upshaw
Gene Upshaw /

So many people forget that the true source of offensive success for the Raiders during the height of the Al Davis era wasn’t Stabler, Biletnikoff, Casper or Branch.  Great as they were.  No, it was the incredible talent, intelligence and will of their offensive line, spearheaded by left guard Gene Upshaw.  Oakland had in fact drafted him back in 1967 with the specific goal of being able to block Kansas City Chiefs future Hall of Fame defensive tackle Buck Buchanan.  This Upshaw did, but also much more.

Despite having no true star running backs in the 1970s, the Raiders always had a great ground attack and Upshaw was at the heart of the reason why.  Stabler also enjoyed his own Hall of Fame career due to the protection Upshaw provided against some of the great defenses in NFL history like the No-Name Dolphins or the Steel Curtain Steelers.  Then, after winning two Super Bowls and reaching seven Pro Bowls, he continued to serve the league as head of the NFL Players Association.  A true great for football, not just the Raiders.

Next: #3

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