The mould was broken when Shell was born on this day, 70 years ago.
His career is intrinsically linked to the Raiders franchise, for whom he became a Hall of Fame offensive tackle for his exploits there from 1968-82.
During this time, he became a two-time Super Bowl winner as a player and eight-times Pro Bowl selection.
This ability to achieve incredible things in the NFL would continue after his playing days ended. Shell went on to become just the second-ever African American head coach in the history of professional football, and the first in the sport’s modern era, when he was first hired to lead them from 1989-94.
This stint included being named AFC Coach of the Year in 1990 after winning the AFC West. A second stint in 2006 would, regrettably, end with the Raiders’ worst record since 1963 of two wins and 14 losses.
More sporting birthdays on this day:
1963: Joe Lydon, a versatile back for Wigan and Great Britain rugby league teams in the 1980s and 90s (53).
1969: Shawn Kemp, retired power forward who became a six-time NBA All-Star with Supersonics and Cavs (47).
1977: Ivan Basso, ex-road cyclist who is a two-time winner of his native Giro d’Italia (39).
1990: Danny Welbeck, England and Arsenal forward who came through the ranks at Manchester United (26).
