Dave Wilcox, the Hall of Fame linebacker who spent his entire career with the San Francisco 49ers, has passed away, the organization announced Thursday. He was 80 years old.
Wilcox was a third-round pick of the 49ers in 1964 and played for the team through the 1974 season. He made his debut at the age of 22 and played till the age of 32. He earned seven Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pros.
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Former San Francisco 49ers great Dave Wilcox poses with his bust following his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio, Saturday, July 29, 2000. (AP Photo/Mark Duncan, File)
Hall of Fame President Jim Porter said in a statement, “Dave Wilcox was nicknamed ‘The Intimidator’ for his aggressive style of play, but he was a kind, humble and gracious man in all other aspects of life. ” “He turned the outside linebacker position—one of many feats that made him his forever home in Canton.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Dave’s wife Merle and his entire family. We will preserve his legacy for generations to come.”
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Hall of Fame linebacker Dave Wilcox celebrates with fans as he is introduced prior to Pro Football Hall of Fame enshrinement on August 6, 2022 in Canton, Ohio. (Nick Cammett/Diamond Images via Getty Images)
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, Wilcox was known for his physical style of football, neutralizing tight ends in scramble liens. He missed only one game in 11 years.
He helped the 49ers to the NFC title game in 1970 and 1971 but lost to the Dallas Cowboys both times. He had 14 interceptions in 144 games.
Dave Wilcox of the San Francisco 49ers football team is shown in uniform taking a shot to the head and shoulders. (Getty Images)
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Wilcox was also taken in the 1964 AFL draft by the Houston Oilers, but chose to play for the 49ers.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.