Jimmy Johnson, a three-time All-Pro and 1970s All-Decade Team member, died. He was 86.
Jimmy Johnson was extraordinarily athletically talented," said Porter, Hall of Fame president. "The 49ers may use him on offense and defense early in his career to satisfy needs.
After moving to left cornerback, he thrived. Jimmy had the 'lockdown' cornerback ability to cut the opposition's field in half.
The 1994 Hall of Famer spent his entire 16-year pro career with San Francisco. He retired with 213 games, more than any other 49ers player.
The club stated Jimmy represented 49er spirit. "He was the ultimate gentleman and will be remembered for his humility, kindness and loveable demeanor."
Johnson was picked sixth overall by the 49ers in 1961 from UCLA, and the Chargers of the nascent AFL drafted him in the fourth round.
Johnson was so flexible that the 49ers employed him on offense in 1962, when he caught 34 passes for 627 yards and four touchdowns.
Johnson became a corner staple by 1964 because he could stop opponents from amassing such figures.
But thanks to God and inner skill, I was able to show Hall of Fame voters my longevity and level of performance from my rookie season to my final.