2026-01-24
Former 49ers QB John Brodie, 1970 NFL MVP, Dies At 90
John Brodie, who played his entire 17-year NFL career with the San Francisco 49ers and won the league's Most Valuable Player award in 1970, died Friday morning. He was 90 years old.The 49ers announced Brodie's passing in a statement from co-chairman Dr. John York. Brodie displayed tremendous commitment to his teammates throughout his career and remained a steadfast supporter of the organization after his playing days concluded.Brodie was a two-time Pro Bowler and won the Associated Press NFL Comeback Player of the Year award in 1965. He became the fourth player in franchise history to have his jersey retired."John Brodie is one of the all-time great leaders and competitors," former quarterback Trent Dilfer wrote Friday. "In my opinion, he should be in the Hall of Fame as a QB."Brodie was selected third overall in the 1957 NFL Draft out of Stanford. He played a then-franchise-best 201 games for the 49ers, more than Joe Montana (167) and Steve Young (150)."The highest tribute that can be paid a quarterback is that he strikes a little fear into whatever defensive team he faces," former Dallas Cowboys coach Tom Landry said during Brodie's career. "Brodie does that."The Oakland native excelled at multiple pursuits beyond football. After turning 50, he totaled over $735,000 in career earnings on the Senior PGA Tour, recording one victory and 12 top-10 finishes between 1985 and 1998.Brodie initially struggled to win over fans at Kezar Stadium as the 49ers missed the playoffs every season from 1958 to 1969. In 1965, he led the NFL in completion percentage (61.9), passing yards (3,112) and passing touchdowns (30).He ranks second in franchise passing yards (31,548), behind Montana (35,124). By the time he retired, Brodie ranked third in NFL history in career passing yards. He is survived by his wife, Sue, and the entire Brodie family.