Raiders Super Bowl Legend Rod Martin Passes Away at 72, Team Confirms

Raiders Super Bowl legend Rod Martin has died at 72, a fact the team confirmed on social media. The Las Vegas-based franchise issued a statement expressing deep sorrow and offering condolences to his family.

Team reaction

The Raiders called Martin a beloved member of their family. The organization noted his role on two Super Bowl championship teams.

Iconic Super Bowl performances

Martin starred in Super Bowl 15, intercepting Philadelphia quarterback Ron Jaworski three times. His three interceptions set a Super Bowl record in Oakland’s 27-10 victory.

That win made the 1980 Raiders the first wild-card team to lift the Lombardi Trophy. The game was played on Jan. 15, 1981, five days after the release of 52 Americans who had been held hostage in Iran for 444 days.

The New Orleans Superdome was decorated with a yellow ribbon during the game. Martin’s play that day was later captured by NFL Films and earned him a Sports Illustrated cover.

Three years later, Martin again impacted a title game. In Super Bowl 18, he recorded a sack and recovered a fumble as the Los Angeles Raiders beat Washington 38-9 in Tampa.

Career overview

Martin entered the NFL as a 12th-round pick from USC in 1977. He became a two-time Pro Bowler and made first-team All-Pro in 1984.

He retired after the 1988 season. His career totals include 56½ sacks and 14 regular-season interceptions, four of which he returned for touchdowns.

Legacy and family

Born in West Virginia, Martin later worked at USC following his playing career. He had two daughters who competed in college sports.

His nephew, Al Martin, played Major League Baseball for 11 seasons between 1992 and 2003. Martin’s contributions remain an enduring part of Raiders history.

Filmogaz.com extends condolences to Rod Martin’s family and to the Raider Nation during this time of mourning.