The San Francisco 49ers organization has announced that former defensive end Cedrick Hardman has passed away on Friday night at the age of 70.
Hardman was selected in the first-round pick in the 1970 NFL Draft and went on to play 10 seasons with the 49ers.
Appearing in 139 games and starting 121 of them, Hardman was the fifth-most among the defensive line.
After his time in San Francisco, Hardman signed with the Raiders and was part of the Super Bowl XV championship team.
The organization released a statement on Saturday:
“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.”
The Raiders team also released a statement:
The Raiders Family mourns the passing of Cedrick Hardman, who joined the Silver and Black in 1980 and served as a mentor and a friend to many young Raiders, including Howie Long. Hardman was a key part of the Super Bowl XV championship team and he will be missed dearly by the entire Raider Nation.