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By Jon Paul Hoornstra
Contributing Sports Writer
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John Brodie, whose 17-year NFL career as the San Francisco 49ers' quarterback culminated in an MVP Award and two All-Pro selections, died. He was 90.
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A Bay Area native, Brodie was born in Menlo Park, grew up in Oakland, and matriculated to Stanford University (where he also played golf). He spent his entire career with the 49ers after being drafted in the first round (third overall) in 1957.
“The 49ers family is saddened to learn of the passing of one of the franchise’s all-time great players, John Brodie,” 49ers owner John York said in a statement. “As a kid, my 49ers fandom began by watching John play quarterback on television. He displayed an incredible commitment towards his teammates and his support of the organization 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.”
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Although he did not become the 49ers first-string quarterback until 1960, after Y.A. Tittle was traded to the New York Giants, Brodie would ultimately establish himself as one of the NFL's best passers.
Brodie led the league in passing yards three times, touchdowns and completion percentage twice. The 49ers made the playoffs three times with him as a starter, losing three times to the rival Dallas Cowboys.
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Brodie retired with 2,469 career completions for 31,548 yards and 214 touchdowns. When he retired, only Johnny Unitas had completed more passes in NFL history.
Brodie transitioned into a career in media, first as NBC’s top NFL analyst alongside Curt Gowdy. In January 1979, the pair called Super Bowl XIII between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Dallas Cowboys.
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The 49ers later inducted Brodie into the team's Hall of Fame and permanently retired his No. 12 jersey. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1986, the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 1988.
After hanging up his spikes, Brodie competed on the Senior PGA Tour and won an event in 1991.
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