Former Raiders defensive back Vann McElroy will light the Al Davis Memorial Torch prior to kickoff of Sunday's Las Vegas Raiders-Pittsburgh Steelers game.
McElroy was originally selected by Al Davis and the Los Angeles Raiders in the third round of the 1982 NFL Draft. Over nine seasons with the Silver and Black, the two-time Pro Bowler played in 101 games (88 starts) and intercepted 31 passes for 296 yards and a touchdown, while playing a huge role in the Raiders' Super Bowl XVIII victory over Washington. His 31 interceptions rank fourth all-time in franchise history.
McElroy is the latest of a distinguished list that have been bestowed the honor, beginning with the late John Madden, who was the first to light the torch on October 18, 2011. The First Lady of Raider Nation, Mrs. Carol Davis, was the first to light the Al Davis Memorial Torch honoring her late husband in Las Vegas prior to the Raiders' inaugural contest at Allegiant Stadium on September 21, 2020.
Since the tradition began in 2011 in Oakland, many Raiders Alumni, celebrities and fans have had the privilege to light the Torch before each home game. The Al Davis Memorial Torch is a tribute to Mr. Davis' legacy as the Raiders' longtime owner, Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee, AFL Coach of the Year, AFL Commissioner, and the architect of the Raiders' Commitment to Excellence in recognition of Mr. Davis' enduring vision that "the fire that burns the brightest in the Raiders' organization is the will to win."
