Keena Turner exemplified the San Francisco 49ers' dominance throughout the 1980s as a versatile, game-changing linebacker. Born October 22, 1958, in Chicago, Illinois, Turner attended Chicago Vocational High School before starring at Purdue University, where he earned First-team All-Big Ten honors in 1978 and 1979.
Drafted by the 49ers in the second round (39th overall) in 1980, the 6-foot-2, 219-pound Turner spent his entire 11-year career in San Francisco, playing in 153 games with 118 starts. He won four Super Bowl championships (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV) and was selected to the Pro Bowl in 1985. Turner was also honored with the Len Eshmont Award in 1984 for exemplifying "courageous and inspirational play." His career totals included 19.5 sacks and 11 interceptions.
Turner's strengths defined versatility and reliability. Hall of Fame coach Bill Walsh called him "the best all-around linebacker in the league for a 10-year period," praising his ability to do everything required at the position. Turner combined exceptional athleticism with football intelligence and unwavering toughness.
His greatest moments showcased legendary dedication. For example, during Super Bowl XVI, Turner recorded a sack as part of the dominant defensive effort that led the 49ers to a 26-21 victory over Cincinnati, remarkably playing through chickenpox that caused blisters all over his body and resulted in a 15-pound weight loss. A starter on all three of Bill Walsh's Super Bowl-winning teams, Turner demonstrated consistency and excellence throughout the dynasty's foundation.
After retirement, Turner coached linebackers at Stanford under Walsh (1992-1994) before serving as a 49ers preseason color analyst for 15 years. He has spent over three decades in the 49ers front office, currently serving as Vice President and Senior Advisor to the General Manager. Turner has also devoted himself to community service, hosting an annual Boys & Girls Clubs golf tournament that has raised over $5 million. He was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2019.
