On Monday, the Las Vegas Raiders released a statement on the death of a former player for the Oakland Raiders.
Per the Raiders, Rich Stephens, an offensive lineman drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the ninth round of the 1989 NFL Draft died.
The Las Vegas Raiders released a statement on Rich Stephens’ death
Dec 25, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 25, 2023; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; A general view of a Las Vegas Raiders helmet against the Kansas City Chiefs prior to a game at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-USA TODAY Sports
“The Raiders Family is mourning the passing of Rich Stephens, who played in two seasons with the Silver and Black,” the Raiders statement reads. “Originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals out of Tulsa in 1989, the offensive lineman went on to play in 29 career games with two starts, all with the Raiders.
“The thoughts of the entire Raider Nation are with Rich’s family at this time.
pic.twitter.com/Kauwx8DQ8q
— Las Vegas Raiders (@Raiders) June 23, 2025
Stephens played four seasons of college football for the Tulsa Golden Hurricanes from 1985-1988 before entering the draft. He never played a game with the Bengals.
Stephens didn’t have an easy career path, persevering through two seasons of WLAF football in 1991 and 1992 before joining the Los Angeles Raiders in 1993. He played offensive tackle and offensive guard for the Raiders.
Fans on social media wished the best for Stephens’ family.
“Rest up big man Once a Raider always a Raider!,” wrote a fan.
“Sad to hear about Rich Stephens’ passing. Condolences to his family and the Raiders community,” posted another.
Oct 20, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders helmet on the turn at SoFi Stadium during pregame warmups before an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images
Oct 20, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Las Vegas Raiders helmet on the turn at SoFi Stadium during pregame warmups before an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams. Mandatory Credit: Robert Hanashiro-Imagn Images
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