Former NFL defensive end Joe Campbell, a key contributor to the Oakland Raiders' Super Bowl XV victory, has passed away at the age of 68. His brother, Patrick, reported that Campbell was discovered deceased in Florida following a hike, with a suspected cardiac event as the cause. The Raiders organization confirmed the news shortly after.
Originally the 7th overall pick by the New Orleans Saints in the 1977 NFL Draft, Campbell spent three seasons in New Orleans before being traded to the Oakland Raiders mid-season in 1980. He contributed to the Raiders' championship run, culminating in a Super Bowl victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. He later played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1981, concluding his NFL career having played in 65 games and recording eight sacks.
Beyond his NFL accomplishments, Campbell, a Wilmington, Delaware native, was recognized for his resilience. In 2007, he suffered significant injuries, including a head injury, in a bicycle accident in Pennsylvania. While he recovered, he continued to manage some physical challenges and memory loss. A standout at the University of Maryland, Campbell was inducted into the Delaware Sports Hall of Fame in 1992. The Raiders offered their condolences, stating, "The thoughts and prayers of the entire Raider Nation are with the Campbell family at this time."
