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This week in Raiders History: Al Davis drives 1966 AFL-NFL merger

On June 8, 1966, The AFL-NFL merger takes place after a short-lived battle led by AFL Commissioner Al Davis.

The AFL owners had implored a reluctant Davis to lead the charge against the more established rival NFL. A gentlemen's agreement was said to have been broken by the NY Giants, who signed kicker Pete Gogolak at the conclusion of his contract with the Buffalo Bills.

The 36-year-old Davis took the reins in April, 1966, and started a bidding war over high profile players. Franchise quarterback Roman Gabriel was set to finish his contract at the end of the 1965 season with the L.