Art Powell, a star receiver for the New York Titans and the Oakland Raiders of the American Football League in the 1960s and a persistent voice protesting the segregation encountered by the pro football players of his time, died on April 6 at his home in Aliso Viejo, Calif., between Los Angeles and San Diego. He was 78.
His death was announced by the Raiders. The San Diego Union-Tribune reported that he had had heart problems.
Powell was a prototype for the pro game’s big wide receivers. At 6 feet 3 and 210 pounds or so, he had good speed and sure hands, and he provided the type of exciting offense that buoyed the A.