49ers all-time interceptions leaders in franchise history

In this article, we take a look at the all-time leaders in interceptions in the 49ers franchise’s history and their impacts on the league.

The San Francisco 49ers have had some amazing defensive players on their rosters throughout their storied history dating back to the team’s creation in 1946.

From pass-rushers to linebackers to defensive backs, the Niners have had All-Pro players at all of those defensive position groups over the years.

Here we take a look at the all-time interception leaders in franchise history.

49ers interception leader No. 3: Kermit Alexander

At No. 3, we have defensive back Kermit Alexander. He played primarily cornerback but also played safety for San Francisco from 1963 to 1969.

In addition to his defensive snaps on the field, he also had kick- and punt-return duties for the team.

Alexander would have the best season of his career in 1968 with nine interceptions. That season would be his first (and last) Pro Bowl selection.

Alexander finished his career with the 49ers with 36 interceptions, putting him at No. 3 on the franchise’s all-time list.

49ers interception leader No. 2: Jimmy Johnson

At No. 2 on the list of all-time interception leaders is defensive back Jimmy Johnson. He would play a season at safety but would ultimately play the majority of his career at cornerback, and he probably should be remembered as perhaps the greatest cornerback in San Francisco’s storied history.

Johnson played his whole career for the team from 1961 to 1976, and in that time, he would earn five Pro Bowl selections and four All-Pro selections.

Johnson finished his career with 47 interceptions and in 1994 he would be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

49ers interception leader No. 1: Ronnie Lott

At No.1 on this list, to no surprise, is Ronnie Lott.

During his 10-year career with the Niners from 1981 to 1990, he earned 10 Pro Bowl selections and six All-Pro selections. In addition to his personal accolades, he was also a four-time Super Bowl champ with the team.

He would begin his career with the team as a cornerback but eventually transition to safety.

He was thought of as one of the original tough guys in the league and laid devastating hits on offensive players that dared to run routes past him, but he was also great in coverage, too.

Lott would finish his career with the 49ers with 51 interceptions, putting him at No.1 on the franchise’s all-time leader list.

He would be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000, and be remembered as one of the greatest defensive players in league history.