In this series of posts, we will explore the significance of each retired jersey number for the San Francisco 49ers, celebrating the extraordinary individuals who have made an indelible impact on the franchise. From the groundbreaking quarterbacks who led the team to Super Bowl victories to the fierce defenders who anchored the defense, these numbers commemorate the players whose contributions have shaped the 49ers' legacy.
We will delve into the careers and accomplishments of these iconic figures, providing a comprehensive look at their key moments and how they influenced the team and the NFL as a whole. By highlighting their achievements and contributions, this series aims to offer a deeper appreciation for the players who have left an enduring mark on the 49ers' history.
Join us as we honor the heroes of San Francisco 49ers' past through the numbers that have become symbols of greatness. Each post will shed light on the storied careers and lasting impact of the players whose jerseys have been retired, celebrating their role in shaping one of the NFL’s most successful and storied franchises.
Here are the honored players and their numbers that are not issued in Miami anymore:
Jersey Number 8
Steve Young 1987–1999
Jersey Number 12
John Brodie 1957–1973
Jersey Number 16
Joe Montana 1979–1992
Jersey Number 34
Joe Perry 1948–1960
Jersey Number 37
Jimmy Johnson 1961–1976
Jersey Number 39
Hugh McElhenny 1952–1960
Jersey Number 42
Ronnie Lott 1981–1990
Jersey Number 70
Charlie Krueger 1959–1973
Jersey Number 73
Leo Nomellini 1950–1963
Jersey Number 79
Bob St. Clair 1953–1963
Jersey Number 80
Jerry Rice 1985–2000
Jersey Number 87
Dwight Clark 1979–1987
If you love football jersey designs and evolution, wait until you check out the History of American Football Jersey.
Football Jersey Frequently Asked Questions
✦ What are American football jerseys made of? Modern jerseys are made of synthetic fibers such as polyester or a blend of different materials such as spandex. For more, check out our in-depth study of The Makeup and Materials of Football Jerseys.
✦ What NFL franchise(s) has/have the most retired jersey numbers? The Chicago Bears and the New York Giants each lead the league with 14 different numbers retired. They have to duplicate when 90-man rosters are in effect.
✦ When did football jerseys start having numbers on them? Though there was documented talk of it since 1894, players only wore digits in a 1905 Iowa State at Drake game. Check out more on this story The Origins Of Football Player Numbers.
✦ Whose college football jersey was the first to be retired? Red Grange's Number 77 Ilinois Illini jersey was the first college uni shelved in 1925. There were a couple more about the same time, and we chatted with a college football expert historian to help divulge College Football and its First Retired Jerseys.
