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San Francisco 49ers icon John Brodie died Friday, the team confirmed. He was 90.
“The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time greats, John Brodie,” 49ers co-chairman John York said in a statement. “As a kid, my 49ers fandom began watching John quarterback on TV. He showed incredible commitment to his teammates and his support for the organization never wavered after his playing days.”
Brodie suffered a stroke in 2000.
The 49ers selected Brodie in the first round of the 1957 NFL Draft. He spent his entire illustrious NFL career with the franchise. His playing days ended after the 1973 season, after which he moved into sports broadcasting.
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San Francisco 49ers quarterback John Brodie in San Francisco (Getty Images)
“John became a dear friend of mine and he will always be remembered as an important part of 49ers history,” York’s statement continued. “Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife, Sue, and the entire Brodie family.”
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In 1965, Brodie was named the Len Eshmont Award winner in recognition of his courageous and inspirational playing. He was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection and won NFL MVP honors in 1970.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback John Brodie in action against the Los Angeles Rams at the Coliseum during the 1970 preseason Sept. 12, 1970 in Los Angeles. (Darryl Norenberg/USA Today Sports)
Brodie’s 214 touchdown passes rank third in franchise history behind Joe Montana and Steve Young.
“He was a great guy, a super competitor. I don’t care what it was — football, cards, golf,” said Jerry Mertens, a cornerback for the 49ers from 1958 to 1965. “He was a great player and he enjoyed all the things that were competitive.
John Brodie (12) of the San Francisco 49ers drops back to pass against the Detroit Lions during an NFL game at Kezar Stadium on October 29, 1967 in San Francisco. (Focus on Sports/Getty Images)
Brodie also had a stint as a professional golfer. From 1985 to 1998, he competed on the Senior PGA Tour, a circuit now referred to as the PGA Tour Champions.
49ers retired Brodie’s No. 12.
