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Neal Dahlen, Architect of 49ers and Broncos Dynasties, Dies at 85

The longtime executive earned seven Super Bowl rings, tying Tom Brady for the second-most in NFL history behind Bill Belichick.

Overview

  • The Denver Broncos confirmed Dahlen's death at age 85 on Wednesday.
  • Dahlen was 7-0 in Super Bowls, collecting five titles with the San Francisco 49ers and two with the Denver Broncos.
  • He worked for the 49ers from 1979 to 1996 through their dynasty years, then joined Denver as director of player personnel for the 1997–98 championship seasons.
  • He served as the Broncos' general manager from 1999 to 2001 after the back-to-back titles.
  • His personnel legacy includes championing Jerry Rice and contributing to moves involving Charles Haley, John Taylor, and the 49ers' 1994 signing of Deion Sanders, following earlier careers in teaching and coaching with San Jose State roots.