ALAMEDA, Calif. -- The Oakland Raiders say Hall of Fame quarterback George Blanda has died. He was 83.

A Raiders spokesman confirmed the death Monday. The team is expected to release a statement later Monday.

Blanda spent 26 seasons in the NFL as a quarterback and kicker while playing for three different teams. He spent 10 seasons with Chicago, seven with the Houston Oilers and nine with the Raiders before retiring in 1976 at the age of 48.

Blanda was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 1, 1981.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of the great George Blanda. George was a brave Raider and a close personal friend of Raiders Owner Al Davis.

When the Raiders Owner presented him for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1981, Davis called Blanda the greatest clutch player the game of pro football has ever known.

The Miracle of George Blanda in 1970 will live for eternity in the history of the Raiders as well as all of professional football. That year, Blandas last-minute heroics as a quarterback and place kicker resulted in four victories and a last second tie for the Silver and Black.

Our heart goes out to his wife Betty and the Blanda family and we grieve with them for our great friend.

A private funeral service will be held for the family. A memorial service will be held with the time and place to be announced at a later date.