Two legendary San Francisco 49ers were in attendance at Monday's team practice in Santa Clara. Former wide receiver Jerry Rice and quarterback Steve Young spoke to the team about the franchise's history and culture and then decided to stick around for practice. While Young played the part of a spectator, Rice took a more active role.
Jerry Rice going from fans back to field at start of practice. #49ers pic.twitter.com/dzNDy0rAo9
— Eric Branch (@Eric_Branch) August 14, 2017
Rice, who was geared up in cleats and gloves, helped the 49ers quarterbacks warm up by catching passes from them.
#49ers @JerryRice still has it! Catching passes brick-by-brick! #GOAT #BEASTwriter #NinerFans 🏈🙌🤙 pic.twitter.com/JTN5rBd8Pn
— Ryan Sakamoto (@BEASTwriter_) August 14, 2017
The legend @JerryRice catching balls at #49ers practice. pic.twitter.com/MvpaiZu9dD
— Jeff Deeney (@PFF_Jeff) August 14, 2017
Jerry Rice & Steve Young talked to #49ers today about franchise's legacy and culture. Jerry sticking around to run WR drills pic.twitter.com/x2kItIKRFK
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 14, 2017
Rice also worked with the wide receivers during warm-ups.
NFL Legend Jerry Rice warming up the guys at #49ersCamp pic.twitter.com/XA00dgx3vZ
— Keiana Martin (@KeianaMartinTV) August 14, 2017
False start, #49ers Jerry Rice pic.twitter.com/FVzhVhEGgV
— Cam Inman (@CamInman) August 14, 2017
Jerry looks like he's still got it. #49ers pic.twitter.com/RfiSgV4hKV
— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) August 14, 2017
Jerry Rice and Steve Young, who is not dressed for practice. #49ers pic.twitter.com/10547Y4LAM
— Eric Branch (@Eric_Branch) August 14, 2017
It's not the first time that the 49ers have opened up practice to former 49ers greats. Legends such as former defensive lineman Charles Haley have also attended past practices.
The new 49ers regime, led by general manager John Lynch and head coach Kyle Shanahan, has been very open to honoring the team's rich history and has welcomed past greats to visit the team.
The 49ers acknowledgment of the past will also be evident at Levi's Stadium this season. The stadium will be adorned with banners throughout the concourse honoring past players and team accomplishments. The 49ers will also unveil the team's Ring of Honor at the stadium this season.