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49ers Legend Diagnosed With Dementia at 54 — Can’t Speak, But Still Remembers Playing for San Francisco

Posted September 1, 2025

San Francisco, CA – The 49ers community has been shaken by heartbreaking news about one of its most dominant defensive linemen of the 1990s. The revelation has left fans reflecting on the glory and the controversies that followed.

Doctors confirmed the diagnosis of dementia, a condition that has taken away much of his ability to communicate. Family members revealed he no longer remembers key details of his personal life, yet still recalls that he once wore the red and gold of San Francisco.

He has now been moved into a long-term care facility, where round-the-clock support has become essential. Loved ones say that while he struggles with names and faces, his eyes light up whenever highlights of the 49ers’ Super Bowl XXIX victory play on the screen.

Dana Stubblefield, once a force at defensive tackle, rose to stardom with San Francisco after being drafted in the first round of 1993. He was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in his debut season and later earned the league’s highest defensive honor in 1997 as Defensive Player of the Year.

Across two stints with the 49ers, Stubblefield tallied 46.5 sacks and three Pro Bowl selections, anchoring a defensive front that helped deliver the franchise’s fifth Super Bowl championship. His 15 sacks in 1997 remain one of the most dominant seasons ever by a defensive tackle.

Despite later controversies that clouded his legacy, fans remember the peak years when he formed a devastating tandem with Bryant Young. His ability to collapse the pocket and control the interior made him one of the defining players of San Francisco’s 1990s defenses.

For 49ers fans, the diagnosis is a painful reminder that legends who once defined Sundays are not immune to life’s most unforgiving battles. Stubblefield’s play may belong to the past, but the echoes of his dominance — and the memories of a Super Bowl run — will live on in San Francisco forever.

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Ravens Update Quarterback Depth Amid Controversies - Re-signed Pro Bowl Star to QB2
Baltimore, MD – October 7, 2025 Following Cooper Rush's disappointing performance in the humiliating 10-44 loss to the Houston Texans on Saturday (October 6), the Baltimore Ravens are facing intense debates about their quarterback room depth. With Lamar Jackson still nursing a hamstring injury and potentially missing the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams (scheduled for Week 6), the big question arises: Should Tyler Huntley – the former Ravens Pro Bowl star – get the starting nod over Rush? Huntley, 27 years old, was re-signed by the Ravens to the practice squad at the end of August 2025 and quickly elevated to QB2 for Week 5. He served as the Ravens' backup QB from 2020-2024, leading the team to the playoffs in 2022 and earning a Pro Bowl replacement spot thanks to his impressive performances filling in for Jackson. With experience in 9 starts (3-6 record), Huntley brings familiarity to the Ravens' offensive system, particularly his mobility and game-reading skills – something Rush seemed to lack in the Texans loss, where he completed only 18/34 passes with 1 TD and 2 INTs, resulting in the offense scoring just 10 points. The controversy exploded on social media, with the hashtag #RavensFlock divided. Many fans support Huntley: "Rush has proven he's not the solution. Huntley knows the system, knows how to win games – put him in!" (from account @RavensFanatic on X). Meanwhile, others defend Rush, arguing he needs time to adapt after transferring from the Dallas Cowboys: "Rush just started his first game for us. Don't rush to conclusions – he has playoff experience!" However, Rush's performance (only 189 passing yards, no big plays) has raised concerns about the depth chart, especially with Jackson possibly out for another 1-2 weeks. Head coach John Harbaugh hasn't commented directly, but in the post-Texans press conference, he hinted at a reevaluation: "We have multiple quality options at QB. Tyler is ready, and we'll choose the one best suited to win." ESPN insiders report that Huntley has been practicing fully and performing well, potentially being promoted to official QB2 if Jackson misses the Rams game – a crucial matchup for the Ravens (currently 1-4) to salvage their season. Signing Huntley – a Pro Bowl star – is seen as a smart move amid the controversies, boosting the Ravens' depth and flexibility. If Huntley gets "the nod" to start, it could be his chance to prove his value, just like his previous fill-ins for Jackson. Ravens fans are awaiting the decision – will "Snoop" (Huntley's nickname) return to save the team? Follow updates from baltimoreravens.com for more details. #RavensFlock #QBControversy