Art Shell

The Trailblazing Offensive Lineman Who Dominated the Trenches

Few players in NFL history have defined dominance, consistency, and leadership like Art Shell. A Pro Football Hall of Famer, two-time Super Bowl champion, and one of the most feared offensive tackles ever, Shell was a cornerstone of the Oakland Raiders dynasty, protecting quarterbacks and paving the way for some of the greatest rushing attacks in NFL history.

Standing 6’5” and weighing 265 pounds, Shell was the perfect blend of size, power, and agility, excelling as a shutdown pass protector and devastating run blocker. Whether protecting Ken Stabler’s blindside or leading the way for power backs like Mark van Eeghen and Clarence Davis, Shell’s dominance in the trenches made him one of the greatest offensive linemen of all time.

Beyond his playing career, Shell made history as the first Black head coach in the modern NFL era, breaking barriers and proving that his leadership and football intelligence extended beyond the field.

This collection celebrates Art Shell, the legendary tackle who set the standard for offensive linemen and paved the way for future generations both on and off the field.

Art Shell’s Legendary Career by the Numbers

Shell’s impact on the game wasn’t measured in touchdowns or flashy stats, but in his relentless dominance in the trenches.

Career Statistics & Achievements (1968–1982)

Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee (1989, first-ballot)
Two-time Super Bowl Champion (XI, XV)
Eight-time Pro Bowler (1972–1978, 1980)
Two-time First-Team All-Pro (1974, 1977)
Four-time Second-Team All-Pro (1973, 1975, 1976, 1978)
NFL 1970s All-Decade Team
Oakland/Los Angeles Raiders Hall of Fame
Played 207 career games (all with the Raiders)
One of the most dominant left tackles in NFL history, rarely allowing sacks
First Black head coach in modern NFL history (appointed by the Raiders in 1989)

Shell wasn’t just a great offensive lineman—he was the foundation of one of the greatest offensive lines in NFL history.

The College Years – A Star at Maryland Eastern Shore

Before becoming an NFL legend, Shell’s journey began at a small historically Black college, where he dominated at every level.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1946, Shell excelled in football and basketball, proving to be an elite athlete.
He played college football at Maryland State College (now Maryland Eastern Shore), a program that produced several Hall of Famers, including Shell’s future Raiders teammate, Willie Brown.
As a standout offensive lineman, Shell dominated smaller-school competition, showcasing his incredible size, strength, and technique.
Despite his talent, he was overlooked by major programs and fell to the third round of the 1968 AFL Draft, where the Oakland Raiders selected him with the 80th overall pick.

Though many scouts doubted his potential, Shell quickly proved them all wrong, becoming one of the most important players in Raiders history.

The Raiders Years – The Foundation of a Dynasty

Shell joined a Raiders team on the rise, but it didn’t take long for him to establish himself as a dominant force.

By his third season in 1970, Shell had become the Raiders’ full-time left tackle, taking over one of the most important positions on the field.
Paired with future Hall of Fame guard Gene Upshaw, Shell helped form one of the greatest offensive line duos in NFL history.
Under the guidance of Al Davis and head coach John Madden, Shell helped the Raiders become one of the most feared teams of the 1970s.

Whether blocking for Ken Stabler’s deep passes or clearing the way for Raiders’ bruising running backs, Shell dominated the line of scrimmage.

The Super Bowl Years – Protecting a Champion

Shell’s impact on the Raiders’ success was most evident during their Super Bowl-winning seasons.

Super Bowl XI (1976 Season) – Dominating the Vikings

In Super Bowl XI, the Raiders crushed the Minnesota Vikings 32-14, winning their first-ever championship.
Shell and the Raiders' offensive line controlled the game, paving the way for 266 rushing yards, including a Super Bowl record-breaking 75-yard run by Clarence Davis.
The Raiders' protection was so dominant that Stabler was barely touched the entire game.

Super Bowl XV (1980 Season) – A Second Title

Four years later, Shell helped lead the Raiders to their second Super Bowl, as they defeated the Philadelphia Eagles 27-10.
He played a crucial role in neutralizing the Eagles’ elite defensive front, allowing Jim Plunkett to throw for 261 yards and three touchdowns.
The victory made the Raiders the first wild-card team to win a Super Bowl, further cementing Shell’s legacy as one of the best offensive linemen in history.

With two Super Bowl rings and eight Pro Bowl selections, Shell’s dominance in the trenches was undeniable.

A Leader On and Off the Field

Shell was more than just a dominant lineman—he was a leader in the locker room, earning the respect of teammates and opponents alike.

He was known for his quiet, disciplined leadership, setting an example through his work ethic, preparation, and professionalism.
Younger players looked up to him, and his knowledge of the game made him a natural coach.
When he retired in 1982, he had played in 207 games over 15 seasons, making him one of the most durable linemen in NFL history.

Though his playing days were over, his impact on the Raiders and the NFL was just beginning.

Breaking Barriers – The First Black Head Coach in Modern NFL History

In 1989, Art Shell made history, becoming the first Black head coach in the modern NFL era, when the Raiders hired him as their head coach.

In his first full season (1990), he led the Raiders to a 12-4 record and an AFC Championship Game appearance.
He was named AFC Coach of the Year, proving he was just as brilliant on the sidelines as he was on the field.
Over six seasons, he compiled a 56-52 record, leading the Raiders to three playoff appearances.
Though his tenure as a head coach was short-lived, his impact as a trailblazer for Black coaches in the NFL cannot be overstated.

His legacy as a pioneer for future Black coaches, including Tony Dungy, Mike Tomlin, and Raheem Morris, helped change the face of the NFL.

Defining Moments of Shell’s Career

1968 – Drafted by the Raiders: Begins his legendary career in Oakland.
1972 – First Pro Bowl Selection: Becomes one of the top tackles in football.
1976 – Super Bowl XI Champion: Leads the Raiders to their first championship.
1980 – Super Bowl XV Champion: Wins his second title, dominating the Eagles' defense.
1982 – Retires After 207 Games: Ends one of the greatest offensive line careers in history.
1989 – Becomes First Black Head Coach in Modern NFL History: Breaks barriers as the leader of the Raiders.
1989 – Named AFC Coach of the Year: Proves his coaching ability with a deep playoff run.
1989 – Inducted into the Hall of Fame: Becomes one of the greatest linemen ever honored.

A Legacy That Changed the Game

Art Shell wasn’t just a dominant lineman—he was a pioneer.

He set the gold standard for left tackles, protecting Hall of Fame quarterbacks and leading legendary rushing attacks.
He was a two-time Super Bowl champion, proving his dominance on the biggest stage.
He made history as the first Black head coach in modern NFL history, paving the way for future generations.

A Champion, A Leader, and One of the Greatest Offensive Linemen of All Time.