Willis cherishes unbreakable bond with ‘special’ 49ers fan base originally appeared on NBC Sports Bay Area
SANTA CLARA — Patrick Willis emerged from the tunnel at Levi’s Stadium an hour before the 49ers kicked off their season against the New York Jets on Monday, greeted by the heartwarming embrace of a familiar crowd passionately chanting his name.
While Willis’ days of suiting up for the Red and Gold are long gone, his connection to the fan base remains strong as ever, with The Faithful never foregoing an opportunity to shower the legendary linebacker with the same undying affection he grew accustomed to during his playing days in the Bay Area.
“The 49ers franchise is historic, rich in tradition, and I’m just honored to have played my years of football here,” Willis told NBC Sports Bay Area after San Francisco’s 32-19 win over New York. “To be able to come back and receive the love that is given, it’s truly special.”
Willis quickly won the hearts of San Francisco fans as a rookie with his fiery play on the field, eventually cementing his place among the Pantheon of franchise greats while dutifully serving as the heart and soul of a 49ers team that provided a much-needed rebirth for the proud organization.
Willis earned five First-Team All-Pro nods and seven Pro Bowl selections during his eight-year NFL career, deservedly earning a reputation as one of his generation’s fiercest competitors. Now, he finds himself in a much different role, watching intently while remaining just as invested in the success of the only NFL franchise he ever knew.
Willis shared the pride he takes in the 49ers’ current core building on the legacy he helped create, joyfully voicing appreciation for still feeling attached to the organization and its fans despite his playing days being well in the rearview mirror.
“It’s nothing like being out on the field and competing, but then you also know that that time will come to it’s end, and you always hope that the next generation picks it up and…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/willis-cherishes-unbreakable-bond-special-041644008.html
Author : NBC Sports BayArea
Publish date : 2024-09-11 04:16:44
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