The Raiders Family mourns the passing of Claude "Hoot" Gibson, who played defensive back for the Silver and Black for three seasons from 1963-65. After entering the AFL out of North Carolina State with San Diego in 1961, Gibson came to Oakland the same year Al Davis was named the Head Coach and General Manager of the Raiders. His play on defense and as a returner helped spark one of the greatest single-season turnarounds in pro football history, as the Raiders went 10-4 after going just 1-13 the previous year. In just five pro seasons, Gibson totaled 22 interceptions, including nine with the Raiders. He led the AFL in punt returns in 1963 and 1965, and in punt return yards in both 1963 and 1964. His three punt returns for touchdowns remain tied for the most in franchise history. The prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with Claude's family at this time.
Raiders mourn the passing of Claude Gibson
Jan 17, 2026 at 11:50 AM
