49ers news: 4 takeaways from 2021 State of the Franchise

3 of 4

Patrick Willis #52 of the San Francisco 49ers (Photo by Michael Zagaris/San Francisco 49ers/Getty Images) /

Takeaway No. 3: Patrick Willis wasn’t already in the 49ers Hall of Fame?

During the event, the 49ers announced linebacker Patrick Willis and wide receiver John Taylor would be the next inductees into the 49ers Hall of Fame.

Taylor, who was overshadowed by Hall of Famer Jerry Rice for the bulk of his career, is nevertheless one of San Francisco’s best secondary options who helped bolster Rice and also benefited from his presence.

And who can forget Taylor’s game-winning touchdown catch in Super Bowl XXIII?

https://www.facebook.com/112852666874/videos/816294819008655

It was not surprising to see Willis get in the team’s HOF, but what was surprising was the fact he was not already inducted. Willis did not have longevity due to injuries, but his impact in the short span of eight years was monumental. During those eight years, he recorded 950 tackles and eight interceptions.

The team should retire No. 52. As a Niners fan, when you see the number 52, you think Patrick Willis.