Gene Upshaw was an American football player who had a long and successful career in the National Football League (NFL). He was a member of the Oakland Raiders from 1967 to 1981 and was a part of the team's first Super Bowl victory in 1977. He was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a three-time All-Pro selection. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1987.

Upshaw was a powerful and dominant offensive lineman who was known for his strength and durability. He was a key member of the Raiders' offensive line that was nicknamed the "The Great Wall of Oakland." He was also known for his leadership and was named team captain in his final season with the Raiders.

After retiring from the NFL in 1981, Upshaw became the executive director of the NFL Players Association (NFLPA). He held this position for 25 years and was credited with helping to secure better benefits and salaries for NFL players. He was also instrumental in negotiating the collective bargaining agreement between the NFL and the NFLPA.

Upshaw was a highly respected figure in the NFL and was well-liked by both players and owners. He was posthumously inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2008. His legacy lives on through the Gene Upshaw Player Assistance Trust, which provides financial assistance to former players in need.

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