Randy Cross was one of the most versatile and durable offensive linemen in San Francisco 49ers history, anchoring the team's offensive line during their dynasty years. Born April 25, 1954, in Brooklyn, New York, Cross attended Crespi Carmelite High School in Encino, California, where he excelled as a shot put champion. At UCLA, he was a First-team All-American in 1975 and helped lead the Bruins to a stunning Rose Bowl upset over top-ranked Ohio State in 1976.
Drafted in the second round (42nd overall) by the 49ers in 1976, the 6-foot-3, 259-pound Cross spent his entire 13-year career in San Francisco, demonstrating remarkable versatility by playing both center (1976-1978, 1987-1988) and guard (1979-1986). His ability to excel at both positions made him invaluable to Bill Walsh's West Coast offense. Cross earned three Pro Bowl selections (1981, 1982, 1984) and three First-team All-Pro honors (1981, 1984, 1985), starting 180 of 185 games played.
Cross was instrumental in the 49ers' three Super Bowl championships (XVI, XIX, XXIII). He was the right guard protecting Joe Montana during the famous 89-yard drive that culminated in "The Catch" against Dallas in the 1981 NFC Championship Game. His final game was Super Bowl XXIII, where he helped protect Montana on the game-winning 92-yard drive, with Montana finding John Taylor for the winning touchdown with 34 seconds remaining—a storybook ending to a brilliant career.
Known for his technical precision, intelligence, and durability as a pass protector and pulling guard who opened lanes for Roger Craig and Wendell Tyler, Cross was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2011. After retiring, he enjoyed a successful broadcasting career spanning over two decades with CBS and NBC as an NFL analyst.
