Isaac Bruce Won’t Wear #80 With Niners

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Since he signed his new contract with the San Francisco 49ers two weeks ago, you’ve no doubt heard the rumors that former St. Louis Rams wide receiver Isaac Bruce wants to wear Jerry Rice’s #80 during his time with the Niners. Ok, he didn’t exactly come out and ask for it, but he didn’t deny he wanted the number he wore for 14 seasons with the Rams. Which just happens to be #80.

The first thing that surprised me was that the number was still available. But, it’s true. Jerry Rice’s #80 has not yet been retired by the Niners. The greatest wide receiver to ever play the game. And his number is available. Well, it’s “available” — but who has the gall to actually ask for it? I know a few players who would take it without a second thought, but they don’t play for San Francisco. Isaac Bruce does and the possibility was there. Ike’s a great wide receiver and will probably be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame someday, but in my opinion, it would’ve been sacrilege. Not only do you not ask for Jerry Rice’s #80, you don’t even think about it. Well, my contact with the Niners, director of Media Relations Aaron Salkin, answered all questions today by saying:

“Isaac Bruce will not be wearing No. 80. We are leaving it in honor of Jerry Rice’s legacy.”

Good. I feel better. You feel better. And that’s the end of that story.