John Vella, a renowned offensive lineman who spent eight seasons in the NFL, primarily with the Oakland Raiders, has passed away at the age of 74. He was pivotal in the Raiders' successful offensive line during the 1970s and was a starting player on the team that secured victory in Super Bowl XI. Drafted in 1972 from Southern Cal, Vella participated in 92 career games, showcasing his talent and dedication, particularly remembered for his key performances in the postseason. His loss is felt deeply within the Raider community and the broader football family.
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.
He played in 92 career games (48 starts), all but eight of those games coming with the Raiders, finishing out his career in Minnesota in 1980.
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