Joe Staley Retires

The 49ers have announced the retirement of left tackle Joe Staley.

Say goodbye to one of the greatest left tackles in 49ers franchise history.

Joe Staley has retired. Here is a statement from 49ers CEO Jed York:

“For the last 13 years, Joe Staley conducted himself in a manner that epitomizes the 49ers way and set a tremendous example for his teammates and our community. A consummate professional, one of the best players in the game and a great human being, Joe has left an indelible mark on this franchise and everyone he has come into contact with throughout his career. His passion, sense of humor and heart are just a few of the many traits that allowed him not only to be a team leader but also an ambassador for our game and the Bay Area.

“One of the most respected and well-liked players in the NFL, Joe was integral to the success our organization has experienced over the last decade. I know Joe wrestled for some time with this decision because of his love for the 49ers and the game of football. As he walks away, my hope is that he does so knowing how greatly appreciated he is by the 49ers organization, my family, and our Faithful fans.

“Forever a member of the 49ers family, Joe holds a special place in our hearts and will go down as one of the true greats in the storied history of our franchise. I look forward to supporting him, his wife, Carrie, and his daughters, Grace and Audrey, as they embark on the next chapter of life.”

Staley, 35, missed four games in 2019 with a fractured fibula, and missed an additional two games with a dislocated finger. He will turn 36 in August and is retiring due to health concerns, per Schefter.

Staley is one of the greatest 49ers of all time. He was a pillar of the franchise from 2007 to 2019, and the only 49er to play for each of the following head coaches: Mike Nolan, Mike Singletary, Jim Harbaugh, Jim Tomsula, Chip Kelly and Kyle Shanahan.

Staley's play began to slip the past two seasons as he got older. But in his prime, he was the best run-blocking tackle in the NFL and an elite pass protector as well. He is a major reason running back Frank Gore most likely will enter the Hall of Fame. Staley may not receive a gold jacket, but certainly deserves a spot in the 49ers' ring of honor. He represented the organization on and off the field as well as any 49ers player ever.

Staley's retirement will give the 49ers cap space, which they will spend on his replacement.

Saturday morning, the 49ers traded a fifth-round pick in 2020 and a third-round pick to Washington for left tackle Trent Williams. Williams will earn $12.5 million next season. The 49ers currently have just $10.3 million in cap space, but Staley's retirement will create space for Williams.