Since he passed away this February, many have mourned the loss of Carl Weathers. The Star Wars fanbase has missed the man who brought humor, toughness, and humanity to The Mandalorian character, Greef Karga. Another fanbase has also been mourning his passing.
Before Weathers became an actor, he played in the NFL for the Oakland Raiders in 1970 and 1971. He played in seven games in 1970 and helped the Raiders win the AFC West Division Title.
Since his stardom, Weathers has become a strong Raiders alumnus. From 1999 to 2001, he narrated the team's highlight films. He has also been seen at several alumni events throughout the years and lit a torch before a home game in 2022. The torch was lit by former players and celebrities in memory of the team's owner, Al Davis.
Upon his passing, the Raiders released a statement celebrating his life and mourning the loss:
"Always a proud Raider, Weathers will be missed dearly by his Raiders Family and his many fans worldwide," a part of the statement read. The organization also fondly remembered Weathers in the highlight film, celebrating their last season and discussing the upcoming one.
The NFL season has recently gotten underway. However, the Raiders owner, Mark Davis (son of Al Davis), took time out of the season to attend Weathers receiving his Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was joined by several former members of the team.
Davis spoke at the event and commented on both Weathers' time with the Raiders and his acting ability. "Carl Weathers will always be remembered than more than just an actor. He's a trailblazer, a game changer and my friend," remarked Davis.
As the Star Wars community continues to remember Weathers, he will also be remembered by so much more. His start in the NFL may have given him certain qualities that were displayed in Greef Karga.