49ers legend Dave Wilcox passes away at age 80
Legendary linebacker for the 49ers, Dave Wilcox, has died at age 80 Wednesday. He spent his entire 10-year career with the Red & Gold.
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The San Francisco 49ers have lost one of their own Wednesday, as hall-0f-fame linebacker Dave Wilcox has reportedly passed away.
News broke Wednesday afternoon that Wilcox, 80, had died. The former football great had recently heart surgery, according to a statement from the The Pro Football Hall of Fame. Nicknamed “The Intimidator”, Wilcox captained the 49ers’ defense for the majority of his ten years with the team, leaving a lasting impact in the league.
“While Dave Wilcox was nicknamed ‘The Intimidator’ for his aggressive style of play, he was a kind, humble and gracious man in all other aspects of life,” Hall of Fame President Jim Porter said in the statement.
“He transformed the outside linebacker position – one of the many feats that earned him a forever home in Canton.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Dave’s wife, Merle, and their entire family. We will preserve his legacy for generations to come.”
We are saddened to share the news that Pro Football Hall of Famer Dave Wilcox has passed away at age 80. #HOFForever
More Info: https://t.co/yqllExvVSi pic.twitter.com/ByISUcnKYV
— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) April 19, 2023
Various members of San Francisco’s past also gave their condolences in the statement Wednesday, some acknowledging him as one of the best tacklers in franchise history.
“Wilcox has the size to control the tight end and the speed to stay with the backs,” former 49ers’ coach Dick Nolan said. “And he is the best open-field tackler I have ever seen.”
“I think he is the best outside linebacker that has ever played the game – by a long way,” former 49ers’ quarterback John Brodie told NFL Films.
Wilcox played for the Red & Gold from 1964 to 1974, drafted by the team in the third round. A seven-time pro bowler, “The Intimidator” played 153 games for the 49ers in 11 seasons. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame class of 2000, alongside other 49er greats Joe Montana and Ronnie Lott.
‘If I had to pick a year, this would be it. This is as good as it gets, going in with Joe and Ronnie. I’m in awe of all of this,” Wilcox said then.
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