Larry Roberts played for the San Francisco 49ers for a good portion of their glory years in the 1980s and 1990s. A part-time starter for the 49ers from 1986-93, Roberts was a member of two Super Bowl winning squads.
Roberts passed away at the young age of 53 following a lengthy battle with diabetes, the team announced on Monday.
“Former San Francisco 49ers defensive end Larry Roberts passed away today, Monday, Dec. 5th at the age of 53. A two-time Super Bowl champion (XXIII & XXIV), Roberts played all eight seasons of his NFL career as a member of the 49ers (1986-93),” the team’s press release read.
Roberts, a close friend of Hall of Fame safety Ronnie Lott, had both of his legs amputated after being diagnosed with diabetes. It’s in this that Lott reportedly helped his former teammate with his medical bills.
Roberts was a native of Dothan, Alabama and played college ball at the University of Alabama before being selected by the 49ers in the second round of the 1986 draft.
His best season came back in 1991 when the defensive end recorded seven sacks. All said, Roberts finished his 49ers career with 28 sacks in 89 games (34 starts).
Our thoughts go out to Roberts’ family, his former teammates and the entire 49ers organization following his passing.