San Francisco 49ers defensive back Jimmy Johnson (37) in action against Philadelphia Eagles receiver Ben Hawkins (18) at Veterans Stadium in 1971. Tony Tomsic-USA TODAY Sports

49ers Hall of Fame CB Jimmy Johnson dies

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Steve DelVecchio | Last updated 5/9/24

The Pro Football Hall of Fame announced on Thursday that former San Francisco 49ers cornerback Jimmy Johnson had died at the age of 86.

Johnson’s family said he had been in declining health for some time.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame is saddened to share the news that the Class of 1994's Jimmy Johnson has passed away at age 86. #HOFForever

More info: https://t.co/Rikll8EsV1 pic.twitter.com/tGIdRgbQXB

— Pro Football Hall of Fame (@ProFootballHOF) May 9, 2024

Johnson was inducted into Canton in 1994 and has been a member of the 49ers’ Hall of Fame since 2009. He spent his entire career with San Francisco from 1961-1976 and made five Pro Bowl teams during that span. Johnson was named a First-team All-Pro four times and a Second-team All-Pro four times.

The 49ers selected Johnson with the sixth overall pick out of UCLA in the 1961 NFL Draft. He spent a brief period as a wide receiver early in his career before committing to defensive back full-time.

Johnson’s 47 career interceptions — many of them on acrobatic plays — are second in the 49ers' history behind only legendary safety Ronnie Lott. His No. 37 jersey is retired by the 49ers.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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