Although his NFL career did not reach the heights of the 6-foot-7 Smith — the No. 1 overall selection by Baltimore in the 1967 NFL Draft who played for the Raiders from 1973-74 after being acquired from the Colts — Philyaw made his mark during four seasons with the Silver and Black from 1976-79.
He appeared in 44 games, made nine starts and finished his Raiders career with 4.5 sacks, including 1.5 in 1978. He later played in the USFL, spending 1983 with the Los Angeles Express and the following season with the Houston Gamblers and Jacksonville Bulls.
Philyaw embraced the Raiders' winning culture and echoed familiar themes when discussing his time with the Silver and Black.
"I just like to win with Al Davis. … Just win baby," Philyaw recalled years later. "We \[were\] always about winning … commitment to excellence, and I always loved it."
Philyaw also reflected on the Raiders' Hall of Fame owner, who was directly involved in the team's player-selection process.
"Al Davis was a unique person, and he was a great person, and I was glad he picked me up," Philyaw said. "I really enjoy Mr. Davis, who was well-meaning, a phenomenal guy."
As a rookie, "King Kong" was surrounded on that 1976 team by 11 future Pro Football Hall of Famers — Fred Biletnikoff, Cliff Branch, Willie Brown, Dave Casper, Al Davis, Tom Flores, Ted Hendricks, John Madden, Art Shell, Ken Stabler and Gene Upshaw.
Given his immediate impact, this imposing presence on the gridiron and gentle giant off the field was a quintessential unsung hero for the World Champions of Professional Football.