Thu Sep 25 17:24:39 2008

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49ers to retire Young's No. 8

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Santa Clara, CA (Sports Network) - The San Francisco 49ers announced Thursday they will retire the jersey No. 8 of former quarterback Steve Young, the 11th player to be so honored in team history.

The ceremony will take place at halftime of San Francisco's game against New England on October 5.

Young played with San Francisco for all but two years of his 15-season career, from 1987-99. In that time, Young compiled a 91-33-0 record with the Niners, twice earned the league's MVP award (1992 and 1994), won the MVP award of Super Bowl XXIX, was a seven-time consecutive Pro Bowler (1992-98) and twice was named All-Pro (1992 and 1993).

He currently stands as the most accurate passer in NFL history with a 96.8 quarterback rating, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005 -- the first left-handed QB to be inducted.

"Steve Young is an important part of the 49ers history and tradition," 49ers owner John York said. "He combined talent, character and a tremendous work ethic to become an incomparable performer and champion on the field. He was a model professional, and he influenced many of the younger players with his dedication. Our players today and for years to come will look up to Steve. We are excited to pay tribute to his achievements with this special halftime ceremony in front of our fans."

Young has played in 150 career games -- 124 starts -- with the 49ers. In that time he threw for 29,907 yards and 221 touchdowns on 2,400-of-3,648 passing -- a 65.8 completion percentage. He holds San Francisco's record for throwing TDs in one season with 36 (1998).

Young also amassed 3,581 yards and 37 touchdowns rushing. His 43 career rushing TDs are an NFL record for a quarterback.

Young played the first two seasons of his career with Tampa Bay, which selected the QB first overall in the 1984 supplemental draft out of Brigham Young. He will become the first 49er to have his jersey retired since Ronnie Lott had his No. 42 retired in 2003.