Jacob William Brendel Bio
Jacob William Brendel is an American professional football center currently playing for the San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at UCLA, where he earned Second-team All-Pac-12 honors and set a school record for starts. Brendel entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2016 and has since played for several teams, establishing himself as a versatile and reliable center.
Early Life and Background
Born on September 10, 1992, in Madison, Wisconsin, Jacob Brendel grew up in Plano, Texas. He attended Plano East Senior High School, where he initially played defensive tackle before transitioning to the offensive line as a junior. As an offensive lineman, he served as team captain and earned two first-team All-district selections. Rated as a three-star recruit and ranked the 15th best center prospect nationally, Brendel attracted attention from college programs.
Path to American Football
Brendel accepted a scholarship to play college football at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). After redshirting his freshman year, he became the Bruins’ starting center in 2012 and quickly distinguished himself. His leadership and consistency earned him multiple honors, including first-team Freshman All-America and two consecutive Second-team All-Pac-12 selections. He graduated in 2015 with a degree in Business Economics and was recognized for his academic achievements.
Jacob William Brendel Career
Early Career (2016–2017)
Undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft, Brendel signed with the Dallas Cowboys as a free agent. Although released before the regular season, he joined their practice squad briefly before moving to the Miami Dolphins’ practice squad later that year. In 2017, Brendel appeared in all 16 games for the Dolphins as a backup center, gaining valuable NFL experience.
Miami Dolphins and Subsequent Teams (2018–2019)
In 2018, Brendel faced injury challenges, including a calf injury that placed him on injured reserve twice. Despite this, he started three games at left guard and center during the season. In 2019, he signed with the Denver Broncos but was released before the season started. Later that year, he briefly joined the Baltimore Ravens but was released after three days.
San Francisco 49ers Era (2020–Present)
Brendel signed with the San Francisco 49ers in February 2020 but opted out of the 2020 season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He was waived during final roster cuts in 2021 but re-signed in 2022, earning the starting center position and starting all 17 games that season. In March 2023, Brendel secured a four-year contract extension with the 49ers. He was a starter in Super Bowl LVIII, where the 49ers narrowly lost to the Kansas City Chiefs in overtime.
Driving Style and Strengths
Brendel is known for his versatility along the offensive line, capable of playing center and guard positions. His reliability, strong technique, and football intelligence make him a key component of the 49ers’ offensive front. His leadership as a three-time college team captain translates to his professional role.
Notable Events and Milestones
Brendel’s career milestones include setting a UCLA school record with 52 starts and earning multiple All-Pac-12 honors. His participation as a starting center in Super Bowl LVIII marks a pinnacle in his professional journey.
Jacob William Brendel Career Wins
While offensive linemen do not accumulate traditional wins or statistics, Brendel’s consistent starting roles and contributions to team successes highlight his impact. His tenure with the 49ers includes playoff appearances culminating in a Super Bowl start.
Other Wins & Performances
Brendel’s collegiate accolades, including First-team Freshman All-America and multiple All-Pac-12 honors, underscore his strong performances before turning professional.
Jacob William Brendel Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
No verifiable public information is available regarding Brendel’s family background or any athletic lineage.
Personal Life
Details about Brendel’s personal life, including marital status and children, are not publicly disclosed.
2025 Season Performance
Entering the 2025 season, Jacob Brendel remains a vital part of the San Francisco 49ers’ offensive line following his contract extension through 2027. His experience and leadership are expected to contribute significantly to the team’s offensive strategies. Maintaining his health and form will be crucial as the 49ers aim for continued playoff success and another Super Bowl appearance.