Matt Hazeltine Award
The Hazeltine Iron Man Award is named after linebacker/center Matt Hazeltine, a 13-year performer who played more seasons at linebacker than any other 49ers player. Known for his durability and dedication, Hazeltine passed away in 1987 from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Bill Walsh established the award in his honor that year. The award is given annually to the most courageous and inspirational defensive player.
Listed below are the 49ers annual award winners since its inception in 1987:
2024 - LB Fred Warner
2023 - LB Fred Warner
2022 - DL Nick Bosa
2021 - LB Azeez Al-Shaair
2020 - CB Jason Verrett
2019 - LB Kwon Alexander
2018 - DL DeForest Buckner
2017 - DL DeForest Buckner
2016 - S Antoine Bethea
2015 - DB Jimmie Ward
2014 - DT Justin Smith
2013 - DT Justin Smith
2012 - DT Ray McDonald
2011 - DT Justin Smith
2010 - DT Justin Smith
2009 - NT Aubrayo Franklin
2008 - LB Takeo Spikes
2007 - LB Jeff Ulbrich
2006 - LB Brandon Moore
2005 - DE Bryant Young
2004 - LB Jeff Ulbrich
2003 - LB Derek Smith
2002 - S John Keith
2001 - S Lance Schulters
2000 - LB Ken Norton Jr.
1999 - DT Bryant Young
1998 - S Tim McDonald
1997 - LB Gary Plummer
1996 - CB Merton Hanks
1995 - S Tim McDonald
1994 - CB Merton Hanks
1993 - S Tim McDonald
1992 - DE Pierce Holt
1991 - LB Charles Haley
1990 - DE Kevin Fagan
1989 - DB Ronnie Lott
1988 - LB Charles Haley
1987 - LB Michael Walter