Former 49ers linebacker Craig Puki has passed away at the age of 66. The team confirmed this heartbreaking news just moments ago.
“The 49ers mourn the passing of former LB Craig Puki,” the team said in its statement. “Our thoughts are with his friends and family.”
Puki was selected by the 49ers in the third round of the 1980 NFL Draft. He played in all 16 games for each of his two seasons with the 49ers, racking up two fumble recoveries and an interception.
In 1981, the 49ers won the Super Bowl. That had to be one of the highlights of Puki’s time in the Bay Area.
The 49ers mourn the passing of former LB Craig Puki.
Our thoughts are with his friends and family ❤️ pic.twitter.com/YbMQ7EOjAx
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) May 19, 2023
Following the 49ers’ championship run in 1981, Puki joined the Rams. The 1982 season turned out to be his last one in the NFL.
Our hearts go out to Puki’s loved ones during this difficult time.