Bryant Young
Inducted:
2022
Player Stats
6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)
291 lb (132 kg)
Born:
January 27, 1972
Chicago Heights, Illinois, U.S.
Position:
Defensive tackle
Defensive end
College:
Notre Dame (1989–1993)
Bryant Young was one of the most dominant defensive linemen of his era, anchoring the San Francisco 49ers’ defensive front with power, technique, and relentless effort. Drafted in 1994, Young quickly established himself as a premier defensive tackle, known for his ability to collapse the pocket, stop the run, and make plays behind the line of scrimmage. Over his 14-season career—all with the 49ers—he was a consistent force against elite offensive lines.
Young’s leadership, durability, and professionalism made him the emotional core of San Francisco’s defense, earning respect across the league. Despite suffering major injuries, he returned to perform at an elite level, exemplifying resilience and toughness. His remarkable career and lasting impact on defensive line play earned him induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2022.
Young's Awards and Honors
- Super Bowl champion (XXIX)
- 2× First-team All-Pro (1996, 1998)
- 2× Second-team All-Pro (1999, 2001)
- 4× Pro Bowl (1996, 1999, 2001, 2002)
- Most safeties in a season: 2 (1996; tied)
- Key leader of 49ers’ defensive line for over a decade
NFL Records
- NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1999)
- NFL 1990s All-Decade Team
- One of the most dominant defensive tackles of the 1990s and 2000s
NFL Teams
San Francisco 49ers (1994–2007)
NFL Draft:
1994: 1st round, 7th overall pick
San Francisco 49ers
Number Worn:
97
NFL Stats
Seasons:
14 (1994–2007)
Games Played:
208
Starts:
208
Total tackles:
627
Sacks:
89.5
Forced fumbles:
12
Fumble recoveries:
7
Passes defended:
20