SAN FRANCISCO — Jerry Rice's No. 80 now hangs from the upper deck at Candlestick Park alongside all the other San Francisco 49ers greats. For Rice, he appreciated getting to say goodbye to all the people and fans who meant so much along the way.
Rice's jersey was retired during a halftime ceremony Monday night, when the Niners hosted the defending Super Bowl champion New Orleans Saints.
The Hall of Fame wide receiver — known for his tireless work ethic even in the late stages of his career — played the first 16 of his 21 NFL seasons with San Francisco, from 1985-2000.
"It doesn't get any better than this," Rice said. "This brings closure to everything. This is where it started, this is where it ends."
Fans chanted "Jerry! Jerry!" for much of the night. Rice served as an honorary team captain and was formally presented with his Pro Football Hall of Fame ring.