Former Tennessee star, 49ers LB Parys Haralson passes away at 37

The nine-year NFL veteran linebacker, known for spending seven seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, passed away September 13 at age 37. 

Parys Haralson, best known for his six-year career as a linebacker for the San Francisco 49ers, passed away unexpectedly on September 13 at age 37.

The statement from the 49ers press release begins as follows:

"“The 49ers are heartbroken and shocked by the news of Parys’ tragic passing. Parys was a beloved member of our organization that lived life with an extraordinary amount of passion and joy, while leaving an indelible mark on everyone he came across. We extend our condolences to Parys’ family and loved ones.”"

Drafted by the 49ers in 2006, Haralson retained close ties with the team even after leaving for a one-year stint with the New Orleans Saints in 2013. In 2016, Haralson joined the 49ers organization as the Director of Player Engagement.

According to his LinkedIn profile, Haralson left the Player Engagement position in 2018 and began working in sales for a San Francisco-based software startup named Mode.net.

Parys Haralson known as standout linebacker with 49ers and Vols

Born in 1984 in Flora, Mississippi, Haralson emerged an esteemed football player by the time he finished high school. Haralson helped Madison Central High School to the state title his sophomore year, then the playoffs his junior and senior years.

Boasting impressive numbers and nominations, Haralson was recruited by the Tennessee Volunteers for the Class of 2006. At the University of Tennessee, Haralson ranked fifth in school history with 21 total sacks. After Tennessee, Haralson was drafted in the fifth round of the 2006 NFL Draft after being selected with the 140th overall pick.

At the end of his lengthy NFL career, Haralson boasted impressive numbers as a linebacker. He started in 88 out of 118 games and recorded 380 tackles, 28 sacks, five fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles and five passes defended.

As a longtime 49er, Haralson’s presence made an impact on the organization, especially on its remarkable early-2010s defense.

When Haralson was sidelined for the 2012 season due to injury, 49ers linebacker NaVorro Bowman made it clear that Haralson’s run defense would be missed.

“We’re used to playing with Parys so much during those run downs,” Bowman said.

After decades in the Bay Area, Haralson leaves a profound mark on the San Francisco community. Our thoughts go out to his family during this difficult time.