Bruceton Native Patrick Willis can add another Hall of Fame induction to his stellar resume after being inducted into the Bay Area Hall of Fame late last week.
Willis has already been inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame and the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame. He enjoyed an eight-year NFL career and was picked for seven Pro Bowls and voted All-Pro five times. The two-time All SEC standout at Ole Miss played high school football at Hollow Rock-Bruceton Central High and returns to Bruceton for youth football camps and has donated to the school.
He retired from the San Francisco 49ers.
Willis said, “When I first set feet in the Bay Area, I knew I had found my home. Every little thing about it made me fall in love. And to the 49ers, I have to say a heartfelt thank you for taking a chance on me! As a lifelong Cowboys fan, I was stunned when they called me up on draft day. I had sworn I’d never play for this team, but my dad would say to me growing up, ‘Son, never say never Because never can happen’. Well I’m so glad it did, because Thursday night at the Bay Area Hall of Fame 2023 Induction, I was up on stage with four other remarkable, incredibly talented athletes who I think are the best of their time. I’m utterly speechless… To coach Mike Singletary, what an introduction. It made me want to do it all over again. I am honored to say I was coached by you, and your impact on and off the field is beyond words. Simply, thank you! To my family, friends, and faithful supporters, thank you for your unwavering support through and through!”
