History of San Francisco 49ers in Timeline
The San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team competing in the NFL as part of the NFC West division. They are based in the San Francisco Bay Area and play their home games at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The team's name pays homage to the California Gold Rush prospectors.
1946: Team Founded
In 1946, the San Francisco 49ers were founded as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC).
1946: Founded as AAFC Member
In 1946, the San Francisco 49ers were founded as an original member of the All-America Football Conference (AAFC).
1946: Inception of 49ers Uniforms
In 1946, the San Francisco 49ers' uniforms featured dark or cardinal red jerseys.
1948: Uniform Change to Scarlet Red
In 1948, the 49ers switched to scarlet red jerseys and gold pants, along with a gold helmet featuring a single red stripe.
1949: Adoption of Stripes
In 1949, the 49ers adopted three stripes to their red jerseys, paired with gold helmets and pants.
1949: Joined NFL
In 1949, the San Francisco 49ers joined the NFL when the leagues merged.
1951: Initial Meeting Between Teams
In 1951, the 49ers and Cardinals initially met.
1953: Red Helmets with Gold Stripe
In the 1953 season, the 49ers wore red helmets with a gold stripe, along with silver pants featuring a single red stripe.
1955: Unique Uniform Elements
The 1955 season featured unique uniform elements such as white pants with black and red stripes and shadow drop numbers on the red jerseys.
1956: White Helmets and Pants
In 1956, the 49ers wore white helmets without stripes and white pants with a red stripe.
October 27, 1957: Tony Morabito's Death
On October 27, 1957, during a game against the Chicago Bears, 49ers owner Tony Morabito collapsed and died of a heart attack at Kezar Stadium. The 49ers went on to win the game 21-17.
1957: Introduction of White Road Jerseys
In 1957, the 49ers introduced white road jerseys with red and gold stripes, as mandated by the NFL.
1958: Single Shoulder Stripe
In 1958, the 49ers' white jersey had a single shoulder loop stripe, and TV numbers were added to the sleeves of home and away jerseys.
1959: Switch to Platinum Gold
In 1959, the team switched to red and platinum gold, with white jerseys featuring double shoulder loop stripes.
1960: Shotgun Formation
In 1960, the San Francisco 49ers' coach Red Hickey devised and named the shotgun formation, which was used for the first time in a game against the Baltimore Colts.
1960: Northwestern Stripes on Helmets
In 1960, the team added "Northwestern" red stripes to their helmets.
1961: Fast Start
In 1961, the 49ers got off to a fast 4-1 start, primarily using the shotgun formation.
1962: Iconic "SF" Logo Created
From 1962, the San Francisco 49ers' logo has been the iconic "SF" within the center of a red oval.
1962: Introduction of the Classic Helmet Design
In 1962, the 49ers introduced the helmet design with a white stripe bordered by two red stripes and the red oval with the SF logo.
May 10, 1964: Victor Morabito's Death
On May 10, 1964, Victor Morabito died at the age of 45.
1964: Change to 49er Gold
In 1964, all silver elements were changed to "49er Gold," and new beige-gold pants with a red-white-red tri-stripe were introduced.
1965: Alternate Logo Created
In 1965, an alternate logo with a shield-shaped crest formed from the number "49", with a football in the upper right quadrant and "SF" in the lower-left quadrant was created and used for marketing purposes until 1972.
1965: Improved Record
In 1965, the 49ers rebounded to finish with a 7-6-1 record, led by John Brodie.
1966: Lou Spadia Named President
In 1966, the Morabito widows named Lou Spadia team president.
1967: 49ers defeat Raiders in first exhibition game
In 1967, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the Oakland Raiders 13–10 in their first exhibition game, marking an early chapter in the "Battle of the Bay".
1968: Bill Walsh served as offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals starting in 1968
Bill Walsh served as Paul Brown's offensive coordinator with the Cincinnati Bengals starting in 1968.
1968: Dick Nolan Hired
In 1968, the 49ers hired Dick Nolan as their head coach.
1970: Change to Serif Numerals
From 1970 to 1974, the 49ers gradually changed from sans-serif to serifed block numerals on their jerseys.
1970: Playoff appearance
In 1970, Dick Nolan, Mike Nolan's father, led the team to three consecutive playoff appearances from 1970 to 1972.
1970: 49ers win against Raiders in Oakland
In 1970, after the merger, the San Francisco 49ers won against the Oakland Raiders in Oakland with a score of 38–7.
1970: Teams placed in opposite conferences
In 1970, the Cleveland Browns and San Francisco 49ers were placed in opposite conferences after the AFL-NFL merger, which diminished the rivalry.
1970: Cowboys defeat 49ers in NFC Championship
In 1970, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game, marking an early victory for the Cowboys in their rivalry.
1970: Division Champions
In 1970, the San Francisco 49ers became division champions.
1970: AFL-NFL Merger
In 1970, the San Francisco 49ers were the only franchise to win their first three divisional titles after the AFL-NFL merger.
1970: Won First Divisional Title
In 1970, the San Francisco 49ers won their first-ever divisional title after defeating the Oakland Raiders 38-7, making them champions of the NFC West.
1971: Moved to Candlestick Park
In 1971, the 49ers moved from Kezar Stadium to Candlestick Park.
1971: Cowboys defeat 49ers in NFC Championship
In 1971, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship game for the second consecutive year.
1971: Won Second Straight Divisional Title
In 1971, the San Francisco 49ers won their second straight divisional title with a 9-5 record.
1972: Playoff appearance
In 1972, Dick Nolan, Mike Nolan's father, led the team to three consecutive playoff appearances from 1970 to 1972.
1972: Cowboys defeat 49ers in Divisional Playoff Game
In 1972, the Dallas Cowboys defeated the San Francisco 49ers in the Divisional Playoff Game, continuing the Cowboys' dominance in the early stages of the rivalry.
1972: Third Consecutive NFC West Title
In 1972, the San Francisco 49ers won their third consecutive NFC West title.
1972: End of Alternate Logo Use
In 1972, the alternate logo with a shield-shaped crest formed from the number "49", with a football in the upper right quadrant and "SF" in the lower-left quadrant was discontinued being used for marketing purposes.
1973: Worst Record Since 1969
In 1973, the San Francisco 49ers had their worst record since 1969, falling to 5-9.
1974: Change to Serif Numerals
From 1970 to 1974, the 49ers gradually changed from sans-serif to serifed block numerals on their jerseys.
1974: Drafted Wilbur Jackson
In 1974, the San Francisco 49ers drafted Wilbur Jackson from the University of Alabama to be the team's primary back.
1975: Bill Walsh served as offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals until 1975
Bill Walsh served as Paul Brown's offensive coordinator with the Cincinnati Bengals until 1975.
1975: Final Season as Coach
In 1975, Dick Nolan's final season as coach of the San Francisco 49ers ended with a 5-9 record.
1976: Thick Pant Striping
In 1976, the 49ers switched to very thick pant striping, and white jerseys were worn at home for most of that season.
1976: Best Start Since 1970
In 1976, the San Francisco 49ers started the season 6-1, marking their best start since 1970.
March 1977: Sold to DeBartolo Family
In March 1977, the San Francisco 49ers were sold to the Edward J. DeBartolo Jr.
1977: Consecutive Games Scored
From 1977, the San Francisco 49ers scored in 420 consecutive games until 2004.
1977: Bill Walsh hired by Stanford University in 1977
In 1977, Bill Walsh was hired by Stanford University, marking a step in his coaching career before joining the 49ers.
1977: Notre Dame wins 1977 National Title
In 1977, Joe Montana led the Fighting Irish to the national title.
1977: The 49ers' Disappointing 1977 Season
In 1977, the 49ers, under coach Ken Meyer, started with five straight losses and finished the season 5-9. Despite some bright spots from players like Tommy Hart, Cleveland Elam, Wilbur Jackson and Delvin Williams, the team struggled, and Joe Thomas made questionable moves, including trading for O.J. Simpson and releasing Jim Plunkett. Meyer was also fired after one season.
1978: Disastrous 1978 Season for the 49ers
The 1978 season was a disaster for the 49ers, finishing with a 2-14 record. O.J. Simpson's performance was underwhelming, and Wilbur Jackson was injured. However, rookie quarterback Steve DeBerg and players like Paul Hofer and Randy Cross began their 49ers careers in 1978.
1979: Coaching Staff
Bobb McKittrick, 49ers offensive line coach since 1979, also died of cancer following the 1999 season.
1979: Bill Walsh Hired as Head Coach in 1979
In 1979, Bill Walsh was hired as the head coach of the 49ers after a successful stint at Stanford University. Walsh was previously an offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals.
1979: Joe Montana's Dramatic Comeback in the 1979 Cotton Bowl Classic
In 1979, Joe Montana led Notre Dame to a dramatic comeback victory in the Cotton Bowl Classic, solidifying his reputation as a clutch player.
1979: Finished last in the NFC West
In 1979, The 49ers finished last in the NFC West for the first time since 1979, ending the NFL's longest active streak for not finishing last in a division.
1979: 49ers lost 1st pick in the 1979 draft
In 1979, the 49ers first pick of the draft was traded to the Bills as part of the O. J. Simpson deal.
1979: Worst Start Since 1979
In 2010, the 49ers started 0-5, marking their worst start since 1979.
1979: 49ers Draft Joe Montana and Dwight Clark in 1979
In the 1979 draft, the 49ers strategically selected Joe Montana after the Dallas Cowboys passed on him. They also drafted Dwight Clark, discovered by Walsh during a scouting session.
1980: 49ers alternate DeBerg and Montana at quarterback in 1980
In 1980, the 49ers alternated between Steve DeBerg and Joe Montana at quarterback, as Walsh aimed to develop Montana while keeping opponents guessing.
1980: 49ers' Comeback Victory Against the Saints in 1980
In 1980, the 49ers, led by Joe Montana, completed a historic comeback against the New Orleans Saints, winning 38-35 in overtime. This game secured Montana's role as the team's full-time quarterback.
1980: Losing Season
In 1999, the 49ers suffered their first losing season in a non-strike year since 1980, which was also the last time that the 49ers did not win at least ten or more games in a season.
1981: Dynasty run
From 1981 to 1994, the 49ers' run of five Super Bowl wins solidified them as one of the modern NFL's great dynasties.
1981: "The Catch" in NFC Championship
In 1981, Joe Montana completed "The Catch" to Dwight Clark in the final minute of the NFC Championship game against the Dallas Cowboys, securing a 49ers victory and becoming one of the most famous plays in NFL history.
1981: 49ers Win Super Bowl XVI in 1981 Season
In 1981, the 49ers transformed their defense with key additions and finished the regular season 13-3. They won the NFC Championship against the Cowboys with "The Catch" and went on to win Super Bowl XVI against the Cincinnati Bengals, marking a complete turnaround for the team.
1981: 49ers defeat Giants in Divisional Round
In 1981, the Joe Montana-led San Francisco 49ers defeated the New York Giants 38–24 in the divisional round at Candlestick Park, leading to their first Super Bowl championship.
1981: Super Bowl Championship
In 1981, the San Francisco 49ers won a Super Bowl championship.
1982: Raiders upset defending Super Bowl champion 49ers
In 1982, the Oakland Raiders upset the defending Super Bowl champion San Francisco 49ers in San Francisco, winning 23–17.
1982: 49ers Experience a Regression in 1982
In the strike-shortened 1982 season, the 49ers regressed, finishing with a 3-6 record despite Joe Montana's strong performance.
1983: 49ers win NFC Western Divisional Title in 1983
In 1983, the 49ers finished 10-6, winning their second NFC Western Divisional Title in three years. They defeated the Detroit Lions in the playoffs but lost to the Washington Redskins in the NFC Championship game.
1984: 49ers Dominate and Win Super Bowl XIX in 1984
In 1984, the 49ers had a historic season, finishing 15-1. They defeated the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl XIX 38-16, capping off a dominant year.
1984: 49ers defeat Giants in Divisional Round
In 1984, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the New York Giants 21–10 in the divisional round at Candlestick Park, resulting in their second Super Bowl championship.
1984: The team received the 28th overall pick after winning the Super Bowl the previous year in 1984
In the 1985 NFL draft, the team received the 28th overall pick because they won the Super Bowl the previous year in 1984
1985: The 49ers equaled the record for most regular-season wins by the Chicago Bears in 1985
In 1985, the 49ers' record for most regular-season wins in 1984 was equaled by the Chicago Bears.
1985: Sustained dominance comparison
In 1994, the 49ers' sustained dominance with an average margin of victory of nearly 20 points per game, was compared to the 1985 Chicago Bears.
1985: 49ers Draft Jerry Rice and struggle in the 1985 season
In the 1985 NFL draft, the 49ers traded up to select Jerry Rice. The 49ers finished the regular season with a 10-6 record and a wild card berth. They were quickly eliminated from the playoffs by the New York Giants 17-3.
September 15, 1986: Montana Placed on Injured Reserve
On September 15, 1986, the 49ers placed Joe Montana on the injured reserve list after he injured his back. Jeff Kemp became the starting quarterback.
1986: Montana Named Comeback Player of the Year
In 1986, Joe Montana was named co-recipient of the NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award, sharing it with Tommy Kramer. This recognition followed his return from a severe back injury.
1986: Giants rout 49ers at Giants Stadium
In 1986, the New York Giants defeated the San Francisco 49ers with a score of 49–3 at Giants Stadium, marking a significant victory for the Giants in the rivalry.
1987: 49ers Finished Regular Season Ranked No. 1 on Offense and Defense
During the strike-shortened 1987 season, the 49ers finished the regular season ranked No. 1 on both offense and defense.
1987: Dwight Clark Retired
In 1987, after the playoff loss, Dwight Clark retired from the 49ers.
1988: 49ers Set League Record with 18 Consecutive Road Victories
Between 1988 and 1990, the 49ers set a league record with 18 consecutive road victories.
1988: Bill Walsh Retires
In 1988, Bill Walsh retired after winning his third Super Bowl as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
1988: 49ers Won Super Bowl XXIII
In 1988, the 49ers won Super Bowl XXIII against the Cincinnati Bengals, 20–16, with a late touchdown pass from Joe Montana to John Taylor. Jerry Rice was named Super Bowl MVP.
1988: Headquarters in Santa Clara
Since 1988, the 49ers have been headquartered in Santa Clara.
1989: Regular Design Gold Helmet
From 1989-1995, the design gold helmet was worn with a uniform.
1989: George Seifert Wins Super Bowl in First Year
In 1989, George Seifert, in his first year as head coach of the 49ers, won the Super Bowl.
1989: Montana Named NFL MVP
In 1989, Joe Montana was named NFL Most Valuable Player after throwing for 3,521 yards and 26 touchdowns, with a 112.4 quarterback rating.
1989: Black Outline Added to "SF" Logo
In 1989, a black outlining on the intertwined "SF" was added to the 49ers' logo.
1989: 49ers Won Super Bowl XXIV
In 1989, the 49ers won Super Bowl XXIV against the Denver Broncos by a score of 55–10, setting a record for points scored and widest margin of victory in a Super Bowl. Joe Montana was named Super Bowl MVP.
1989: Loma Prieta earthquake
In 1989, the San Francisco Bay Area was affected by the Loma Prieta earthquake.
January 14, 1990: NFC Championship Game Victory
On January 14, 1990, the 49ers defeated the Los Angeles Rams 30–3 in the NFC Championship Game to advance to Super Bowl XXIV.
1990: Craig and Lott Depart
Following the 1990 season, the 49ers let team stalwarts Roger Craig and Ronnie Lott go to the Los Angeles Raiders via Plan B free agency.
1990: Giants Defeated 49ers in NFC Championship Game
In 1990, the New York Giants defeated the 49ers 15-13 in the NFC Championship Game, thwarting the 49ers' attempt at a "three-peat".
1990: First Win at Lambeau Field Since 1990
In the 2012 season, the 49ers beat the Packers in Lambeau Field week 1 for the first time since 1990.
1991: 49ers Missed Playoffs
In 1991, despite finishing with a 10-6 record, the 49ers missed qualifying for the playoffs.
December 28, 1992: Montana's Return Game
On December 28, 1992, Joe Montana came back after missing almost two full seasons and started the second half of a Monday night game versus Detroit. Completing 15–21 for 126 yards and 2 touchdowns, the 49ers defeated the Lions 24–6.
1992: Montana Traded to Chiefs
In 1992, Joe Montana asked for, and was granted, a trade to the Kansas City Chiefs prior to the 1993 season due to a quarterback controversy with Steve Young.
1992: Cowboys win NFC Championship against 49ers
In 1992, the Dallas Cowboys won the NFC Championship game against the San Francisco 49ers, advancing to the Super Bowl.
1993: Montana Traded to Chiefs
In 1993, Joe Montana was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs prior to the season due to a quarterback controversy with Steve Young.
1993: 49ers Lost to Cowboys in NFC Championship Game
In 1993, the 49ers lost to the Dallas Cowboys 38-21 in the NFC Championship Game.
1993: 49ers defeat Giants in Divisional Round
In 1993, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the New York Giants 44–3 in the divisional round, marking a decisive win for the 49ers.
1994: George Seifert Wins Additional Super Bowl
In 1994, George Seifert won another Super Bowl as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
1994: Throwback Uniforms for NFL 75th Anniversary
In 1994, many NFL teams wore "throwback uniforms" on occasional games to celebrate the NFL's 75th anniversary.
1994: Star free agents addition and record-setting season
In 1994, the 49ers added star free agents and rookie players, faced initial challenges, but rallied to a 13-3 record, winning Super Bowl XXIX and setting a record for combined regular and post-season points. Steve Young was named MVP, solidifying the 49ers' dynasty.
1994: Super Bowl Championship
In 1994, the San Francisco 49ers won a Super Bowl championship.
1994: 49ers win NFC Championship against Cowboys
In 1994, the San Francisco 49ers won the NFC Championship game against the Dallas Cowboys, marking a pivotal victory in the rivalry and sending them to the Super Bowl.
1994: NFC Championship Appearance
In 1997, the 49ers advanced to the NFC championship game for the first time since 1994, where they lost to the Green Bay Packers.
1994: New All-White Alternate Uniform
In 2018, the 49ers unveiled a new all-white alternate uniform, styled after the 1994 design with larger letters and numerals.
1994: Red Throwback Uniforms Unveiled
In 2021, the 49ers unveiled a red version of the 1994 throwback uniforms for use in select home games, with the white version now worn exclusively on the road.
1995: Playoff Appearance
In 1995, the 49ers finished with an 11–5 record, won the division, and made the playoffs, where they were later eliminated by the Green Bay Packers.
1995: Packers Upset 49ers
In 1995, the Packers upset the 49ers in the NFC Divisional game at Candlestick Park.
1996: Helmet and Jersey Design
From 1996, the helmet and jersey design with the 1998 gold pants was worn as the team's regular uniforms.
1996: Gold Trimming Added Inside Oval
In 1996, a gold trimming inside the oval was added to the 49ers' logo.
1996: 49th Anniversary Uniform Changes
In 1996, the 49ers celebrated their 49th anniversary with a commemorative jersey patch and a new uniform design, including a deeper red and black dropshadow on the numerals.
1996: Postseason Appearance
In 1996, the 49ers finished with a 12–4 record and made the postseason, where they were eliminated by the Green Bay Packers.
January 17, 1997: Seifert Resigns and Mariucci Hired
On January 17, 1997, George Seifert resigned as 49ers head coach, and Steve Mariucci was hired as his replacement on the same day.
1997: White Pants Continue
In 1997, the Niners donned white pants full-time for the season.
1997: NFC West Win
In 2002, the 49ers won the NFC West for the first time since 1997.
1997: NFC Championship Appearance
In 2011, the 49ers made the playoffs after a nine-year drought, won the NFC West, and reached the NFC Championship game for the first time since 1997, losing to the New York Giants.
1998: Return to Gold Pants
For the 1998 regular-season opener, the 49ers switched back to gold pants with a more metallic gold and black-cardinal red-black striping.
1998: Helmet and Jersey Design
From 1996, the helmet and jersey design with the 1998 gold pants was worn as the team's regular uniforms.
1998: Hearst's Injury
Garrison Hearst, who had been forced to retire from football after breaking his ankle in the 1998 divisional playoffs, finally returned to the line-up after over two years of rehabilitation in 2001.
1998: Points record comparison
In 1994, the 49ers set a new record for total regular-season and post-season combined points scored. The 1998 Minnesota Vikings scored 556 regular-season points, but only 68 postseason points, for a total of 624 points, while the 1994 49ers scored 495 regular-season points and 131 postseason points for a total of 626, the second-highest mark in NFL history
1998: DeBartolo's Suspension
In 1998, Eddie DeBartolo Jr. pleaded guilty to failure to report a felony and was suspended from active control of the 49ers for one year.
1998: Offensive Success and Wildcard Berth
In 1998, Jerry Rice returned from injury, Garrison Hearst had a memorable touchdown run, and the 49ers had the 2nd most productive offense in league history, finishing 12–4 and earning a wildcard berth.
1998: 2-0 Start To Season
In 1998, The 49ers started the season 2–0, for the first time since 1998.
1998: Garrison Hearst's Injury and 49ers Loss
In 1998, during the divisional round of the playoffs, Garrison Hearst suffered a severe ankle break on the first play from scrimmage, and the San Francisco 49ers lost to the Atlanta Falcons 20–18.
1998: The 49ers equaled the record for most regular-season wins by the Minnesota Vikings in 1998
In 1998, the 49ers' record for most regular-season wins in 1984 was equaled by the Minnesota Vikings.
September 27, 1999: Steve Young's Career-Ending Concussion
On September 27, 1999, Steve Young suffered a career-ending concussion in a game against the Cardinals.
1999: Young's Injury and Garcia's Takeover
In 1999, Steve Young suffered a career-ending injury during a Monday Night Football game. Jeff Garcia took over as starting quarterback, and the 49ers had their first losing season since 1980.
1999: 49ers Personnel Help Browns Relaunch
In 1999, former San Francisco 49ers president and CEO Carmen Policy and vice president/director of football operations Dwight Clark were hired by the expansion Cleveland Browns to help with their relaunch.
2000: DeBartolo surrenders controlling interest
In 2000, Eddie DeBartolo Jr. surrendered controlling interest of the 49ers to the Yorks as part of a settlement.
2000: Garcia's Record-Breaking Season and Playoff Miss
In 2000, Jeff Garcia broke the 49ers' franchise record for most passing yards in one season, but the team missed the playoffs for the second straight year.
2000: Occasional Meetings Between Teams
The 49ers and Cardinals met occasionally until 2000.
2001: Playoff Return
In 2001, the 49ers returned to the playoffs with a 12–4 record. Garrison Hearst was named NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
2001: Defensive Rank Drop
In 2002, the 49ers defense struggled at times, dropping from the 9th-ranked defense in the previous season of 2001 to the 19th-ranked.
2001: Packers Beat 49ers in Post-Season Game
The Green Bay Packers beat the 49ers in a 2001 post-season game.
2002: Divisional Realignment and Playoff Appearance
In 2002, the 49ers gained new divisional rivals, won the NFC West, and defeated the New York Giants in a historic comeback in the Wild Card game, but lost in the Divisional round.
2002: Falcons move to NFC South
In 2002, the Atlanta Falcons moved to the NFC South after the realignment, ending their run as division rivals with the San Francisco 49ers.
2002: Realignment into Same Division
In 2002, the NFL's realignment placed the Seattle Seahawks and 49ers into the same division, intensifying their rivalry.
2002: Placement in NFC West Division
In 2002, the rivalry with the Cardinals intensified when both teams were placed in the NFC West division.
2002: First Non-Losing Season Since 2002
In 2009, the 49ers posted an 8-8 record, marking their first non-losing season since 2002.
2002: 49ers Comeback Victory vs Giants in Wild Card Game
In the 2002 NFC wildcard game, the San Francisco 49ers made a comeback from a 24-point deficit to beat the New York Giants with a 39–38 victory.
2003: Turbulent 2003 Season
In 2003, the 49ers had a turbulent season marked by a souring relationship between Garcia and Owens, injuries to key players, and a 7–9 finish, missing the playoffs.
2004: Erickson retained, key player releases, and franchise-worst record
In 2004, despite a disappointing previous season, Erickson was retained as coach. However, Owens was traded, and other key players like Garcia and Hearst were released. The team finished with a franchise-worst 2–14 record.
2004: The 49ers equaled the record for most regular-season wins by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2004
In 2004, the 49ers' record for most regular-season wins in 1984 was equaled by the Pittsburgh Steelers.
2004: Consecutive Games Scored
In 2004, the San Francisco 49ers ended their streak of scoring in 420 consecutive games, which started in 1977.
2005: Alex Smith Drafted First Overall
In 2005, the 49ers drafted Alex Smith with the first overall pick. His rookie season was a disaster, and the team finished 4–12.
2005: Training Camp Signings
The 2009 training camp became the first since 2005 that the 49ers failed to have all drafted rookies signed and in training camp on time, as Crabtree held out trying to reach a contract.
November 8, 2006: 49ers End Stadium Negotiations with San Francisco
On November 8, 2006, the San Francisco 49ers ended negotiations with the city of San Francisco regarding the construction of a new stadium. The team planned to build the stadium in Santa Clara instead.
2006: Frank Gore's Record-Breaking Season
In 2006, Frank Gore had a franchise record of 1,695 rushing yards and was awarded his first Pro Bowl appearance. The team finished 7–9.
2006: Trent Dilfer wears No. 12
In 2006, Trent Dilfer wore number 12 with Joe Brodie's permission.
2007: Points record broken
In 1994, the 49ers set a new record for total regular-season and post-season combined points scored, which was later broken by the New England Patriots in 2007.
2007: Trent Dilfer wears No. 12
In 2007, Trent Dilfer continued to wear number 12 with Joe Brodie's permission.
2007: Patrick Willis drafted and Bill Walsh Death
In 2007, the 49ers drafted Patrick Willis, who became Defensive Rookie of the Year. Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh died. The team finished 5-11 after injuries and struggles at the quarterback position.
2007: The 49ers equaled the record for most regular-season wins by the New England Patriots in 2007
In 2007, the 49ers' record for most regular-season wins in 1984 was finally broken by the New England Patriots
October 20, 2008: Mike Nolan Fired; Mike Singletary Appointed Interim Coach
On October 20, 2008, Mike Nolan was fired after a 2–5 start. Mike Singletary was named interim head coach.
2008: Top 10 NFL Rivalries
In 2008, the rivalry between the Los Angeles Rams and the San Francisco 49ers was ranked No. 8 on Sports Illustrated's "Top 10 NFL Rivalries of All Time" list.
2008: End of Regular Uniform
Until the end of the 2008 season, the helmet and jersey design with the 1998 gold pants was worn as the team's regular uniforms.
April 25, 2009: Michael Crabtree Drafted
On April 25, 2009, the 49ers drafted Michael Crabtree with the 10th pick in the first round of the 2009 NFL draft.
October 7, 2009: Crabtree Signs Contract
On October 7, 2009, Michael Crabtree signed a contract with the 49ers after missing the first four games of the season due to a holdout.
2009: 49ers Won Nine of Ten Meetings
After the 49ers won nine of ten meetings between 2009 and 2013, the Cardinals won eight straight meetings between 2014 and 2018.
2009: Uniform Redesign
In 2009, the 49ers changed uniforms, introducing a design similar to the classic look with angled sleeve stripes.
2009: Jimmy Raye Hired
In the 2009 offseason Jimmy Raye was hand picked by Singletary.
June 8, 2010: Measure J Passes in Santa Clara
On June 8, 2010, Measure J, which the 49ers sponsored to build a new stadium in Santa Clara as their future home, passed with 58.2% of the vote. This was the first step for the 49ers stadium relocation.
December 27, 2010: Mike Singletary Fired
On December 27, 2010, the 49ers fired Mike Singletary as head coach after a disappointing season start.
2010: Five 49ers selected for the Pro Bowl
In 2010, five 49ers players, including Patrick Willis, Vernon Davis, Frank Gore, Justin Smith, and Andy Lee, were selected for the Pro Bowl.
January 4, 2011: Trent Baalke Promoted to General Manager
On January 4, 2011, Trent Baalke was promoted to the permanent General Manager position.
January 7, 2011: Jim Harbaugh Named Head Coach
On January 7, 2011, Jim Harbaugh was named the 49ers' new head coach.
August 20, 2011: Fights and Shooting at 49ers-Raiders Pre-Season Game
On August 20, 2011, the pre-season game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Oakland Raiders was marked by fights in restrooms and stands at Candlestick Park, including a shooting outside the stadium in which several were injured.
November 9, 2011: 49ers Announce New Stadium in Santa Clara
On November 9, 2011, the 49ers confirmed that they would build a new, state-of-the-art stadium in Santa Clara, with the expectation of it being ready for the 2014 season.
2011: Kaepernick Drafted
Colin Kaepernick was drafted in 2011. Kaepernick eventually started the rest of the season, going 5–2.
2011: Jim Harbaugh Hired
In 2011, the 49ers hired Jim Harbaugh, which intensified the rivalry with the Seahawks due to his existing feud with Pete Carroll.
2011: Playoff Berth and NFC Championship Appearance
In 2011, the 49ers made the playoffs after a nine-year drought, won the NFC West, and reached the NFC Championship game for the first time since 1997, losing to the New York Giants.
2011: The 49ers equaled the record for most regular-season wins by the Green Bay Packers in 2011
In 2011, the 49ers' record for most regular-season wins in 1984 was equaled by the Green Bay Packers.
2011: Giants defeat 49ers in NFC Championship
In the 2011 NFC Championship game at Candlestick Park, the New York Giants defeated the San Francisco 49ers 20–17 in overtime, winning on a Lawrence Tynes field goal and advancing to the Super Bowl.
2011: Playoff Drought
The 49ers lost the next week to the eventual Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the Divisional round in 2002. This was the last postseason appearance for the 49ers until the 2011–12 playoffs.
April 3, 2012: New Nike Uniforms Debuted
On April 3, 2012, the 49ers debuted an updated uniform with improved fit and breathable fabrics, manufactured by Nike.
April 19, 2012: Groundbreaking for New Stadium
On April 19, 2012, groundbreaking for the new 49ers stadium in Santa Clara took place.
2012: Kaepernick Takes Over; Super Bowl Appearance
In 2012, Colin Kaepernick replaced Alex Smith at quarterback, leading the 49ers to Super Bowl XLVII, where they lost to the Baltimore Ravens.
2012: 49ers defeat Falcons in NFC Championship
In 2012, led by Colin Kaepernick, the San Francisco 49ers defeated the top-seeded Atlanta Falcons in Atlanta with a score of 28–24 in the NFC Championship game.
2012: 49ers Beat Packers in Lambeau Field
In the 2012 season, the 49ers beat the Packers in Lambeau Field week 1 for the first time since 1990, and again in the NFC Divisional game that same season.
2012: Kicker David Akers' decline
Towards the end of the 2012 season was the reliability of kicker David Akers who began to show signs of decline.
March 6, 2013: David Akers Released
On March 6, 2013, David Akers was released by the 49ers, and Phil Dawson was signed as his replacement.
May 8, 2013: Levi Strauss & Co. Buys Naming Rights to New Stadium
On May 8, 2013, the San Francisco 49ers announced that Levi Strauss & Co. purchased the naming rights to their new stadium in Santa Clara. The deal involved Levi's paying $220.3 million over 20 years, with an option for a five-year extension.
2013: 49ers Won Nine of Ten Meetings
After the 49ers won nine of ten meetings between 2009 and 2013, the Cardinals won eight straight meetings between 2014 and 2018.
2013: NFC Championship Game
In 2013, the Seahawks defeated the 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, advancing to win Super Bowl XLVIII.
2013: Playoff Berth
The 49ers finished 12–4 in the 2013 regular season and enter the playoffs as a wildcard
January 5, 2014: 49ers defeated the Green Bay Packers
On January 5, 2014, San Francisco 49ers defeated Green Bay Packers 23–20 in the playoffs.
January 12, 2014: 49ers defeated the Carolina Panthers
On January 12, 2014, the 49ers defeated the Carolina Panthers 23-10, advancing to their third straight NFC Championship game.
December 28, 2014: Harbaugh and 49ers Part Ways
On December 28, 2014, Jim Harbaugh and the 49ers decided to part ways after the season's final game.
2014: Cardinals Won Eight Straight Meetings
After the 49ers won nine of ten meetings between 2009 and 2013, the Cardinals won eight straight meetings between 2014 and 2018.
2014: Phil Dawson and Colt McCoy sign with 49ers
In 2014, long-time Cleveland Browns placekicker Phil Dawson and backup quarterback Colt McCoy signed with the San Francisco 49ers.
2014: Moved to Levi's Stadium
In 2014, the San Francisco 49ers moved to Levi's Stadium.
January 14, 2015: Jim Tomsula Hired as Head Coach
On January 14, 2015, Jim Tomsula was hired to replace Jim Harbaugh as the head coach of the 49ers. Geep Chryst was promoted to offensive coordinator, and Eric Mangini was hired as defensive coordinator.
March 10, 2015: Patrick Willis Announces Retirement
On March 10, 2015, All-Pro linebacker Patrick Willis announced his retirement from the NFL due to repeated injuries to both feet.
April 30, 2015: Unveiling of Alternate Uniform
On April 30, 2015, the 49ers unveiled their first-ever alternate uniform, featuring black jerseys and pants with red numerals and striping.
January 4, 2016: 49ers Fire Jim Tomsula
On January 4, 2016, the 49ers fired head coach Jim Tomsula after he led the team to a 5–11 record.
January 14, 2016: Chip Kelly Hired as Head Coach
On January 14, 2016, Chip Kelly was hired as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers.
October 21, 2016: 49ers Ranked Worst Franchise in North America
On October 21, 2016, in an ESPN ranking of professional sports franchises, the San Francisco 49ers were ranked the worst franchise in North America.
December 24, 2016: 49ers Narrowly Defeat Rams
On December 24, 2016, the San Francisco 49ers narrowly defeated the Los Angeles Rams 22–21, ending a franchise-record 13-game losing streak.
2016: Rams Return to Los Angeles
In 2016, the Rams' return to Los Angeles heightened the geographic animosity in the rivalry with the 49ers.
November 1, 2018: 49ers win final regular season "Battle of the Bay"
On November 1, 2018, the San Francisco 49ers won the final regular season matchup of the "Battle of the Bay" against the Oakland Raiders by a score of 34–3, leaving the series tied 7–7.
November 2018: Cheerleader Kneels During National Anthem
In November 2018, a 49ers cheerleader knelt during the US national anthem, becoming the first NFL cheerleader to do so, in protest against racism and police brutality.
2018: Cardinals Won Eight Straight Meetings
After the 49ers won nine of ten meetings between 2009 and 2013, the Cardinals won eight straight meetings between 2014 and 2018.
2018: New All-White Alternate Uniform
In 2018, the 49ers unveiled a new all-white alternate uniform, styled after the 1994 design with larger letters and numerals.
2019: Road Game in Alternate Uniform
In 2019, the 49ers wore their alternate uniform on the road in their week 17 finale at Seattle.
2019: "Bang! Bang! Niner Gang!" chant popularized
In 2019, the chant of "Bang! Bang! Niner Gang!" was popularized by Bay Area rapper E-40 among 49er fans.
2019: 49ers Defeat Packers in NFC Championship Game
In the 2019 season, the 49ers defeated the Packers in the NFC Championship game at Levi's Stadium 37–20.
2020: 49ers Lose Super Bowl LIV
Following their win in the 2019 season, in 2020 the 49ers lost Super Bowl LIV to the Kansas City Chiefs.
2020: Raiders move to Las Vegas
In 2020, the Oakland Raiders began playing their home games at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas, effectively ending the geographic rivalry with the San Francisco 49ers.
2020: COVID-19 pandemic restrictions
In 2020, the San Francisco Bay Area faced restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2021: Red Throwback Uniforms Unveiled
In 2021, the 49ers unveiled a red version of the 1994 throwback uniforms for use in select home games, with the white version now worn exclusively on the road.
2021: 49ers upset Cowboys in Wild Card Round
In 2021, the San Francisco 49ers upset the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card Round, considered a major upset in the modern era of their rivalry.
2021: Packers Lose to 49ers in Divisional Round
In the 2021–2022 season, the Packers lost to the 49ers in the Divisional Round.
January 30, 2022: NFC Championship Game Loss
On January 30, 2022, the Rams defeated the 49ers 20–17 in the NFC Championship Game at SoFi Stadium.
2022: New Uniform Version Unveiled
In 2022, the 49ers unveiled a new version of the uniforms, featuring a saloon font and a 3 stripe jersey.
2022: 49ers defeat Cowboys in Divisional Round
In 2022, the San Francisco 49ers continued their winning streak against the Dallas Cowboys, winning the divisional round game 19–12.
2022: Packers Lose to 49ers in Divisional Round
In the 2021–2022 season, the Packers lost to the 49ers in the Divisional Round.
January 1, 2023: 49ers win against Raiders in Las Vegas
On January 1, 2023, the San Francisco 49ers met the Las Vegas Raiders for the first time in Las Vegas, securing a slim overtime win with a field goal, ending the game 37–34.
June 2023: Acquisition of Leeds United
In June 2023, the enterprise branch of the San Francisco 49ers completed the acquisition of English soccer club Leeds United.
2023: All-Time Series Lead
As of the 2023 season, the Seahawks lead the all-time series against the 49ers 31-23.
2023: Division Champions
In 2023, the San Francisco 49ers became division champions.
2023: 49ers beat Cowboys with Largest Win Margin
In Week 5 of the 2023–24 season, the San Francisco 49ers beat the Dallas Cowboys 42–10, marking the largest win margin for the 49ers in the history of the rivalry.
April 8, 2024: As of April 8, 2024
As of April 8, 2024, this entry marks a timestamp with no specific event detailed.
August 2024: Team Value
According to Forbes, in August 2024, the San Francisco 49ers are valued at $6.8 billion, making them the sixth most valuable team in the NFL.
2024: All-Time Series Lead
As of 2024, the 49ers lead the all-time series against the Rams with a record of 78-71-3.
