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Tommy Hart cause of death: What did the former 49ers player and three-time Super Bowl champion die of at 80?

Posted on November 22, 2024 - 2:31 pm by

Tommy Hart, a respected figure in the NFL as a player, coach, and scout, has passed away at the age of 80, as announced by the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday. Hart‘s contributions to football spanned decades, leaving a lasting imprint on the sport

Tommy Hart cause of death: What did the former 49ers player and three-time Super Bowl champion die of at 80?.

Hart’s NFL journey began in 1968 when the 49ers selected him in the 10th round of the draft. Over the next decade, he became a dominant presence on their defensive line before concluding his career with the Chicago Bears (1978-79) and New Orleans Saints (1980).

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Across 13 seasons, Hart appeared in 177 games, starting 140, and recorded 83 sacks, two interceptions, and eight fumble recoveries-two of which he returned for touchdowns.



As part of the renowned “Gold Rush” defensive line, Hart earned recognition for his exceptional performance, including second-team All-Pro honors in 1976 and a Pro Bowl selection in 1977.

Twice awarded the Len Eshmont Award for his inspirational play (1972, 1976), Hart was admired as both a player and a leader.

Hart’s achievements

Born in Macon, Georgia, Hart attended Morris Brown College, where he excelled on both sides of the ball. His achievements included second-team NAIA All-America honors and three consecutive all-conference selections. His alma mater paved the way for his 1993 induction into the Georgia Sports Hall of Fame.



After retiring from playing, Hart remained deeply involved in the game. He coached the 49ers‘ defensive line from 1983 to 1991, helping secure three Super Bowl titles (XIX, XXIII, XXIV).

He later worked as a scout for San Francisco and then for the Dallas Cowboys, where he also served as a defensive line coach and area scout into the 2000s. Hart‘s cause of death remains unknown for the time being.

“The San Francisco 49ers are deeply saddened by the passing of former defensive end, coach and scout Tommy Hart,” the franchise said.