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San Francisco 49ers icon John Brodie died on Friday, the team confirmed. He was 90 years old.
“The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time great players, John Brodie,” 49ers co-president John York said in a statement. “As a kid, my 49ers fandom began watching John play quarterback on television. 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 notable NFL career with the franchise. His playing days came to an end 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 will always be remembered as an important part of 49ers history,” York’s statement continued. “We extend our deepest condolences to his wife, Sue, and the entire Brodie family.”
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In 1965, Brodie was named winner of the Len Eshmont Award in recognition of his courageous and inspiring work. He was also a two-time Pro Bowl selection and won NFL Most Valuable Player honors in 1970.
San Francisco 49ers quarterback John Brodie in action against the Los Angeles Rams at the Coliseum during the 1970 preseason on September 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 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 sport/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 known as PGA Tour Champions.
The 49ers retired Brodie’s number 12.
