John Brodie: A Legend in NFL History
John Brodie, a celebrated figure in NFL history and former quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers, passed away at the age of 90. His family confirmed that he died on Friday, following a stroke he suffered in October 2000.
Mourning a Legend
The San Francisco 49ers issued a heartfelt statement mourning the loss of Brodie, describing him as one of the franchise’s legends. Co-chairman Dr. John York reflected on Brodie’s impact, stating:
“As a child, my journey as a 49ers fan began by watching John dominate as our quarterback. His dedication to his teammates and passion for the team were unwavering throughout his life. He was not only an extraordinary player but also a dear friend, and his legacy will forever resonate within 49ers history. Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife Sue and the entire Brodie family.”
Career Highlights
Brodie’s tenure with the 49ers spanned from 1957 to 1973, a prolific career during which he established himself as a leading passer in the NFL after a standout college career at Stanford. There, he made headlines by breaking nearly all major passing records and also showed promise as a golfer, eventually competing on the PGA Tour Champions, where he won the Security Pacific Senior Classic in 1991.
In his professional football career, Brodie amassed impressive statistics, finishing his time with 31,548 passing yards, a total that ranks second in the history of the 49ers, falling only behind the legendary Joe Montana. When he hung up his cleats, he was third in the all-time NFL passing yards behind Johnny Unitas and Fran Tarkenton, with 214 touchdown passes, still a remarkable feat in the 49ers’ annals, surpassed only by Montana and Steve Young.
Brodie’s most notable season was in 1970, when he won MVP honors after throwing for 2,941 yards and 24 touchdowns, with just 10 interceptions, guiding the 49ers to the NFC championship game in consecutive years. Following his retirement, the 49ers honored him by retiring his number 12 jersey, cementing his status as one of the team’s greats. He was recognized as a first-team All-Pro in 1970 and a second-team All-Pro in 1965.
Personal Life and Legacy
Brodie, who stood at 6-foot-1 and weighed 200 pounds during his playing career, was born in San Francisco on August 14, 1935, later attending Oakland Technical High School. He was a unanimous All-American during his college season in 1956 and took home the prestigious Coffman Award as MVP of the East-West game. The 49ers selected him in the first round of the 1957 NFL Draft.
On a personal note, respected by peers for his competitive spirit, former teammates recall Brodie as an exceptional leader both on and off the field. Cornerback Jerry Mertens, who played alongside Brodie from 1958-1965, remembered him fondly:
“John was not just a great player but a fierce competitor in everything he did, whether it was football, golf, or even cards. He truly excelled as a leader.”
Even after stepping away from football, Brodie continued to shine in other arenas, appearing as a football and golf analyst for NBC and famously calling the Super Bowl in January 1979.
John Brodie’s legacy extends far beyond his statistics; it embodies the spirit of the San Francisco 49ers and the resilience of a true sportsman.
AP NFL
