VIDEO: Raiders Release Heartwarming 'Mother's Day' Tribute After Hall of Fame DB Willie Brown Passes
By Scott Rogust
A true Oakland Raiders legend left the world on Tuesday morning. Hall of Fame defensive back Willie Brown passed away at the age of 78 after a long battle with cancer. While Brown is known for his pick-six off Minnesota Vikings quarterback Frank Tarkenton in Super Bowl XI and his innovation in bump and run coverage, he's also remembered for his NFL Draft appearances, especially this cameo in 2016. Prior to announcing defensive end Jihad Ward as the team's second-round pick, Brown sent a memorable and heartfelt reminder to all of the viewers to wish their mothers a Happy Mother's Day. On the day of his death, the Raiders official Twitter account released that famous speech.
He never forgot a Mother's Day.
— Oakland Raiders (@Raiders) October 22, 2019
Thanks to you we won't either, Willie. #RaiderNation pic.twitter.com/8FQzPv0XIH
Truly heartwarming.
In his playing career, Brown holds three Super Bowl victories (XI, XV, XVIII), four Pro Bowl nominations (1970-73), and two First-Team All-Pro honors (1971, 1973). Long after his playing days, Brown was named the Raiders Director of Staff Development from 1995 until his death.
Remembering Hall of Famer and @raiders NFL Legend Willie Brown #RIP pic.twitter.com/vDwENIeosc
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) October 22, 2019
Willie Brown never forgot a Mother's Day, and he made sure every NFL fan didn't forget, either.