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Former Las Vegas Raiders Player Dead At 59 Years Old

Originally posted on The Spun | By Andrew Gould | Last updated Jun 24, 2025 11:37 AM ET

Former Raiders offensive lineman Rich Stephens died Sunday at age 59.

The organization confirmed Stephens' passing in a social media post on Monday.

"The Raiders Family is mourning the passing of Rich Stephens, who played two seasons with the Silver and Black," the team said. "... The thoughts of the entire Raider Nation are with Rich's family at this time."

The Cincinnati Bengals selected Stephens with the No. 250 pick of the 1989 draft out of Tulsa. He played 16 games with the Los Angeles Raiders in 1990 and 13 for the Raiders, who then played in Oakland, in 1995. The 6-foot-7 guard made one start each season.

Stephens also played for the World League of American Football's Sacramento Surge, who won the league championship in 1992.

"Rich was dearly loved within the Raiders Organization as his personality was a blessing to the morale and wellness of many," his obituary read.

Former Raiders teammate and NFLPA player rep Nolan Harrison mourned Stephens' passing by posting a video of him singing and playing the guitar.

"RIP to my former teammate Rich Stephens," Harrison wrote. "He was such a great teammate and such a good guy. Always with a kind word and a heartfelt hug. Taken from us way too soon."

Our condolences go out to Stephens' friends and family for their loss.

This article first appeared on The Spun and was syndicated with permission.

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