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Raiders draft countdown: Gus Otto is best No. 34

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Mark Hebert | Last updated Mar 20, 2026 9:26 AM ET

Thirty-four days remain until the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Pa., April 23-25, 2026. After a 3-14 season in 2025, the Las Vegas Raiders hold the No. 1 overall pick as this daily countdown continues through the franchise’s best players by jersey number.

Today, March 20, the number is 34.

Gus Otto, No. 34

Gus Otto is the pick for No. 34 because he was a steady, long-term linebacker during the Raiders early winning years. From 1965-1972, he gave the defense reliability, toughness, and a consistent presence in the middle.

Otto played 102 games for the Raiders and spent his entire pro career in Silver and Black. He also earned a Pro Bowl selection and helped the Raiders win an AFL championship.

Happy birthday to former #Mizzou and Raiders Pro Bowl LB and honorary Cardinal, Gus Otto.

The McBride high school alum turns 81 today. pic.twitter.com/YqpM7QiGs5

— St. Louis Football Cardinals (@BigRed_STL) December 8, 2024

Why Otto gets No. 34

No. 34 has big-name skill players, but Otto separates with a full Raiders career and championship-era value on defense. He was not a headline player, however he was part of the foundation.

The separator is eight seasons with one franchise, plus a Pro Bowl and an AFL title.

Draft and background

Otto was born Dec. 8, 1943, in St. Louis. He played at McBride High School in Missouri before starring at Missouri.

The Oakland Raiders drafted him in the fourth round, 27th overall, of the 1965 AFL Draft. He went on to play eight seasons, all with the Raiders.

Other notable No. 34s

Bo Jackson, 1987-1990
LaMont Jordan, 2005-2007
Derrick Fenner, 1995-1997

Career check

Otto may not have the flash, but his Raiders resume is complete: 102 games, a Pro Bowl season, and an AFL championship. For No. 34, the best Raider is Gus Otto.

Next up tomorrow: No. 33.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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