Former Patriots Star Says He’ll Always Be a Bear — Hopes to return in New England One Day

San Francisco, California – A monumental and symbolic moment unfolded in San Francisco this week as the San Francisco 49ers welcomed one of their newest defensive players while honoring a true legend in franchise history. When the 49ers acquired defensive tackle Osa Odighizuwa from the Dallas Cowboys in a trade that sent a 3rd-round pick in 2026 to Dallas, the move was seen as an important addition to bolster the defensive line. Odighizuwa, who has already made a name for himself as a disruptive force in the NFL, now embarks on a new chapter of his career with San Francisco. However, the story didn’t stop there. Upon his arrival in the Bay Area, Odighizuwa made a request to wear one of the most iconic jersey numbers in 49ers history – No. 42, a number forever associated with Ronnie Lott, a player who helped define the franchise’s legendary defense. Lott, who played for the 49ers from 1981 to 1990 and became one of the most dominant and respected defensive players in NFL history, is honored by having his No. 42 jersey retired by the team. Lott’s legacy in San Francisco is inseparable from the franchise’s five Super Bowl championships and his hard-hitting, playmaking style that left a lasting impact on the game. Knowing the weight of the number, Odighizuwa reached out to Lott directly before requesting permission to wear No. 42. The gesture highlighted the respect and admiration the young defensive star had for one of the most iconic players in 49ers history. In a response that was both generous and fitting of a true legend, Lott gave his full blessing for Odighizuwa to wear the number. “No. 42 carries a lot of memories for me in San Francisco,” Lott said. “If Osa wants to wear it, I’m more than happy to give my approval. I hope he and the rest of the defense can help bring the 49ers back to the golden era we once built.” The gesture of allowing Odighizuwa to wear No. 42 was not only a moment of respect but also a passing of the torch, signifying the continuity of the 49ers' storied defensive legacy. Lott’s number is now part of the fabric of the 49ers' defense, and Odighizuwa, with his immense potential, could help bring a new chapter of dominance to the team. For the 49ers, the trade and the respect shown by Lott is a symbolic reflection of the franchise’s commitment to honoring its past while continuing to build a future around elite defensive players. Odighizuwa, now wearing No. 42, will join the ranks of the 49ers' formidable defensive front, which already includes stars like Nick Bosa and Fred Warner. For Odighizuwa, wearing Lott’s iconic number is both an honor and a challenge. He arrives in San Francisco ready to prove himself as a crucial piece in the team’s defensive line rotation and a key factor in the 49ers’ push for another Super Bowl title. The number that once symbolized the dominance of the 49ers’ defense now enters a new chapter with Odighizuwa, carrying forward the legacy of Ronnie Lott and the Steel Curtain-like defensive units of past eras. With Lott’s blessing, Osa Odighizuwa will wear No. 42 with pride, hoping to help the 49ers return to the golden era that Lott helped create. 🏈