John Vella, a stalwart of the dominant 1970s Raiders offensive lines and a Super Bowl champion, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 74, the Oakland Raiders confirmed. His death marks the loss of a true legend in NFL history, especially for the Raiders, where his fierce play and tenacity helped secure one of the team’s most iconic championships.
The Raiders’ official statement paid tribute to Vella’s enduring legacy: “The Raiders Family mourns the passing of John Vella, a standout on the dominant Raider offensive lines of the 1970s and a starter on Oakland’s Super Bowl XI Championship team.” Vella was drafted by the Raiders in the second round of the 1972 NFL Draft out of USC, where he was a consensus All-American as a tackle in 1971.
Vella’s football career was defined by his versatility and unyielding competitive spirit. A two-way player, he performed both at guard and tackle, showcasing his adaptability to fit the needs of his team. Over his eight seasons with the Raiders, Vella played in 84 games and started in 48 of them. His crowning achievement came in 1976, when he was a starter in the Raiders’ dominating Super Bowl XI victory over the Minnesota Vikings. Vella played a crucial role in the offensive line, which protected Hall of Fame quarterback Ken Stabler and opened up lanes for the team’s rushing attack. The Raiders’ 32-14 victory in Super Bowl XI was a defining moment in NFL history, and Vella was an essential part of that triumph.
Vella continued his NFL career with a brief stint at the Minnesota Vikings in 1980 before retiring from the league. Over his nine-year career, Vella played in 92 NFL games, with 48 starts—a remarkable feat for a player who excelled in both positions on the offensive line.
After retiring from professional football, Vella transitioned to the sports memorabilia industry. He opened The Raiders Locker Room in the Bay Area, a store dedicated to the Raiders’ rich history. Later, in an effort to resolve a trademark lawsuit filed by the NFL and the Raiders, he renamed the store Vella’s Locker Room. The store became a popular destination for fans of the Silver and Black, as well as collectors of sports memorabilia.
Vella’s legacy extends far beyond his achievements on the football field. He represented the toughness, resilience, and Raider spirit that have come to define the franchise. Known for his work ethic and determination, Vella was a fan favorite during his time in Oakland, and his place in Raiders history is secure as one of the team’s legendary figures.
“The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with the Vella family at this time,” the Raiders concluded in their tribute. John Vella’s passing leaves a hole in the hearts of those who admired his contributions to the game and to the Raiders. His legacy, however, will endure, not only in the history books but in the memories of every fan who watched him play during the Raiders’ glory years. Vella was not just a player; he was a key part of the Raiders’ culture and identity—a testament to the enduring strength of the team’s bond with its loyal supporters.
