Story byBrodie played in the NFL but also made two appearances at the US Open golf championship []BBCSat, January 24, 2026 at 8:09 AM UTC·1 min readSan Francisco 49ers legend John Brodie has died at the age of 90. The quarterback was the 1970 NFL MVP and spent all his 17 NFL seasons with the 49ers. Brodie led the NFL with 2,941 yards and 24 touchdowns during his MVP season and his number 12 jersey was retired by San Francisco when he ended his playing career in 1973. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisement"The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise's all-time great players, John Brodie," said 49ers co-chairman Dr John York."As a kid, my 49ers fandom began by watching John play quarterback on television. He displayed an incredible commitment toward his teammates and his support of the organisation never wavered after his playing days."John became a dear friend of mine, and he will always be remembered as an important part of 49ers history. We express our deepest condolences to his wife Sue and the entire Brodie family."Brodie helped the 49ers to the NFC championship game in 1970 and 1971, when they lost to the Dallas Cowboys on both occasions. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementHis 31,548 passing yards puts him second in the franchise's history behind Joe Montana, while Brodie is third with 214 touchdown passes behind Montana and Steve Young. He was inducted into the 49ers Hall of Fame in its inaugural class of 2009. Brodie also played golf and made two appearances at the US Open - in 1959 and 1981 - but failed to make the cut on either occasion. He also played on the senior PGA Tour and commentated on American football and golf for NBC. NFL fixtures and resultsGet American Football news sent straight to your phone.
