49ers Legend John Brodie Passes Away at 90
John Brodie, a legendary quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, has passed away at the age of 90. His remarkable football career spanned 17 seasons, establishing him as a pivotal figure in the history of the franchise.
Early Life and Career
Brodie was an accomplished athlete, excelling in both football and golf at Stanford University. In 1957, he was selected by the 49ers as the third overall pick in the NFL Draft.
Transition to Football
Before dedicating himself fully to football, Brodie briefly pursued a career in golf, even competing on the PGA Tour. Eventually, he chose to focus on the sport that would define his legacy: American football.
NFL Achievements
- Became the starting quarterback for the 49ers in 1961.
- Named NFL Most Valuable Player in 1970.
- Retired after the 1973 season.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Brodie emerged as one of the NFL’s premier quarterbacks. After taking on the starting role following the trade of Hall of Famer Y.A. Tittle, he consistently delivered outstanding performances.
Post-Football Career
After retiring from professional football, Brodie shifted to sports analysis, joining NBC Sports as a football and golf analyst. His passion for golf continued, and he competed on the Senior PGA Tour, achieving victory in 1991.
Legacy and Tributes
The San Francisco 49ers organization expressed their sorrow over Brodie’s passing. Owner John York stated, “The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time great players, John Brodie.” He described Brodie as a dedicated teammate and a loyal supporter of the team.
York also extended heartfelt condolences to Brodie’s wife, Sue, and the entire Brodie family.
John Brodie’s contributions to the San Francisco 49ers and the NFL will always be remembered, marking him as a true icon in the sport.
