Key Takeaways
- John Brodie, the longtime San Francisco 49ers quarterback, passed away on Friday at the age of 90
- Brodie spent his entire 17-year career with the 49ers, from 1957 to 1973, and holds several franchise records
- He was a two-time All-Pro honoree, two-time Pro Bowl selection, and NFL MVP in 1970
- Brodie led the league in passing touchdowns and yards multiple times and was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame and the 49ers Hall of Fame
- After his football career, Brodie worked as an NFL and golf analyst for NBC Sports and competed as a professional golfer on the Senior PGA Tour
Introduction to John Brodie’s Passing
The San Francisco 49ers announced the passing of their longtime quarterback, John Brodie, on Friday, January 23, 2026. Brodie was 90 years old at the time of his passing. He spent his entire 17-year career with the 49ers, from 1957 to 1973, and appeared in 201 games, including 159 starts. During his time with the team, Brodie piled up 31,548 yards and 214 touchdowns, cementing his place as one of the franchise’s all-time great players. The 49ers family, including Co-Chairman Dr. John York, released a statement expressing their sadness and condolences to Brodie’s family.
John Brodie’s Achievements and Accolades
Throughout his career, Brodie achieved numerous accolades and records. He started and played in five postseason games, throwing for 973 passing yards with four touchdowns. His teammates selected him to receive the team’s Len Eshmont Award in 1965 due to his inspirational and courageous play. Brodie was also a two-time All-Pro honoree, a two-time Pro Bowl selection, and the NFL MVP in 1970. He led the league in passing touchdowns and yards multiple times and had the best passer rating in football in 1970. Brodie’s No. 12 jersey was retired by the team in 1973, and he was subsequently inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1988 and the 49ers Hall of Fame in 2009.
John Brodie’s Early Life and Education
Brodie was born on August 14, 1935, in Menlo Park, San Mateo County, in the San Francisco-Bay Area. He grew up in Oakland and attended Oakland Technical High School, graduating in 1953. Brodie then went on to attend Stanford University, where he lettered in both football and golf. He was named an unanimous All-American following his senior season at Stanford, demonstrating his exceptional athletic abilities from an early age. Brodie’s early life and education laid the foundation for his future success in football and beyond.
John Brodie’s Life After Football
After his football career, Brodie pursued a career in broadcasting, working as an NFL and golf analyst for NBC Sports. He was considered NBC’s No. 1 NFL analyst for two seasons, working alongside play-by-play man Curt Gowdy. Brodie and Gowdy called Super Bowl 13 in January 1979, which saw the Pittsburgh Steelers defeat the Dallas Cowboys 35-31. In addition to his broadcasting career, Brodie continued to pursue his passion for golf, competing as a professional golfer on the Senior PGA Tour from 1985 to 1998. He had one win, 12 top-10 finishes, and earned a total of $735,000 during his time on the tour.
Tributes and Legacy
The 49ers family and fans are mourning the loss of John Brodie, remembering him as an important part of the team’s history. Dr. John York, 49ers Co-Chairman, released a statement expressing his condolences to Brodie’s family and remembering Brodie as a dear friend. Brodie’s legacy extends beyond his on-field accomplishments, as he inspired countless fans and teammates with his commitment, courage, and passion for the sport. His contributions to the 49ers and the NFL will be remembered for generations to come, and his impact on the game will continue to be felt.
