49ers Legend OL Battles After Stroke But Never Misses a Game, Family Shares His Unbreakable Love for San Francisco
In a quiet home overlooking the Bay Area, the sound of the 49ers broadcast still echoes every Sunday afternoon. The living room walls are covered with framed photos, Super Bowl programs, and the familiar red and gold colors that defined an era of dominance. Sitting in his recliner, a 49ers blanket draped over his legs, one of San Francisco’s greatest warriors still watches, still cheers, for the team he helped build into a dynasty.
Now 70 years old, the former offensive lineman has spent the past few months recovering at home after suffering a major stroke in September. The man once known for his grit, leadership, and unmatched toughness in the trenches now faces a different kind of battle. His body may have slowed, but when the 49ers take the field, his eyes still follow every snap, every block, the game remains a part of him.
That man is Randy Cross, the three-time Super Bowl champion and cornerstone of the 49ers’ legendary offensive line during the 1980s. A Hall of Fame nominee and fan favorite, Cross played
His wife, Linda Cross, says that spirit has never wavered. Sitting beside him during games, she watches his hand twitch every time the 49ers score, his lips moving softly as he hums along to the team’s fight song he’s known for decades. Her eyes well up when she speaks about how much the routine still means to him.
“Every Sunday, he asks what time kickoff is,” Linda says softly. “Even when he’s tired or in pain, he insists on watching. He may not be in the huddle anymore, but in his heart,he’s still out there with them. That passion keeps him going.”
Doctors describe his recovery as slow but steady. Family and friends say his determination mirrors the same drive that made him a legend on the field. Members of the 49ers organization, from alumni to current players,have reached out with messages of encouragement, many sharing memories of Cross’s leadership and wit that once lit up the locker room.
49ers fans across social media have joined in support, posting highlights of his iconic plays and sharing messages under the hashtag #FaithfulForRandy, celebrating not just his contributions to the franchise, but the spirit he continues to embody through adversity.
Randy Cross may never step onto the gridiron again, but his legacy remains in every offensive line snap, every fan chant, and every heart that bleeds red and gold. He
49ers Veteran Offensive Tackle Arrested Hours After Team Release
San Francisco, CA — The San Francisco 49ers confirmed early Tuesday morning that a recently released veteran offensive lineman was arrested in downtown San Jose late Monday night, just hours after being informed of his release from the team.
According to police reports, the player was taken into custody on multiple charges, including driving under the influence, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest. The incident reportedly occurred near a bar shortly after midnight, where witnesses say the man had been drinking heavily before getting behind the wheel.
Authorities stated that when approached by officers, he became verbally aggressive and refused to comply with commands, prompting his arrest. The incident came only hours after the player had received notice of his termination from the team — a decision that, according to sources, had deeply affected him.
The lineman, later identified as Brandon Parker, had signed with San Francisco earlier this season to provide veteran depth and leadership on the offensive line. A former starter with the Raiders, Parker had spent much of the past two seasons battling injuries and was part of the 49ers’ practice squad rotation before his release on October 28.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan addressed the situation during Tuesday’s media availability, saying:
“It’s a tough situation. He’s always been a respected guy here — hardworking, dependable, and well-liked by everyone in this building. When we heard the news, our first step was to make sure he’s safe and getting the help he needs. We’re not here to judge him — we’re here to help him find his way back. Once a Niner, always part of our family.”
The 49ers organization later issued a statement through Shanahan, reaffirming their support for the veteran:
“The organization has reached out privately to provide both legal and emotional assistance, ensuring he receives the proper guidance moving forward.”
Sources within the team said the incident is being handled internally with empathy and discretion. Team leaders emphasized that while accountability is important, the focus remains on helping a longtime professional through one of the most difficult moments of his career.
