Former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Cedrick Hardman passed away last night at the age of 70..
Statement from the San Francisco 49ers organization:
"We are truly saddened by the loss of one of the all-time great 49ers, Cedrick Hardman. During his 10-year career in red and gold, he anchored the vaunted "Gold Rush" defensive line with a non-stop motor that put fear in the minds of opposing quarterbacks. As a football player, Cedrick's accomplishments were many. As a man, his impact on the lives of others was just as impressive. Our condolences and prayers go out to the Hardman family and all who are mourning the passing of Cedrick."
Hardman was originally selected in the first round (ninth overall) by San Francisco in the 1970 NFL Draft. He spent 10 seasons with the 49ers (1970-79) and appeared in 139 games (121 starts), the fifth-most among 49ers defensive linemen, trailing only DT Bryant Young (208), DT Charlie Krueger (198), DT Leo Nomellini (174) and DT Roland Lakes (140). A two-time All Pro (1971 & 1975) and Pro Bowl (1972 & 1976) selection, Hardman anchored a defensive front nicknamed the "Gold Rush" that included DE Cleveland Elam, DE Tommy Hart and DT Jimmy Webb. Hardman is also a member of San Francisco's 10-Year Wall, which honors all players who played 10-or-more seasons with the team.
Following his time in San Francisco, Hardman signed with the Oakland Raiders where he appeared in 32 games over two seasons (1980-81) and was a member of the Super Bowl XV championship team.
Born Cedrick Ward Hardman in Houston, TX, he attended the University of North Texas where he registered 38.0 sacks in 10 games in his only season as a full-time starter during his senior season in 1969. Hardman was named to the North Texas All-Century Team in 2013.
