What happened: The former San Francisco running back entered the Pro Football Hall of Fame on Aug. 8 with the Class of 2026. He was elected through the senior finalists pool.
Why it matters: The diagnosis brings long-term player health into focus during football’s highest-profile annual ceremony. It adds a sobering chapter to one of San Francisco’s defining careers.
By the numbers: He became the first NFL player with 1,000 rushing yards and 1,000 receiving yards in one season in 1985. His 11-year career produced more than 13,000 yards from scrimmage, 73 touchdowns and three Super Bowl titles.
What to watch: The next focus is how the 49ers and Hall of Fame community respond to the diagnosis.