Former 49ers defensive end Larry Roberts, who played on two of San Francisco's Super Bowl-winning teams, died Monday, the team announced. He was 53.
Roberts had battled numerous health issues in recent years. According to USA Today, he suffered from diabetes and also had his legs amputated after being diagnosed with gangrene. He was close friends with former 49ers teammate Ronnie Lott, who helped raised money for Roberts' medical bills through an assistance fund he set up.
Roberts played all eight seasons of his NFL career with the 49ers (1986-93) after being drafted 39th overall by San Francisco in 1986. He won titles with the 49ers in Super Bowl XXIII and Super Bowl XXIV.
He started in 37 of the 101 games (including playoffs) he appeared in for the 49ers and registered 28 career sacks. In 1991, he tied future Hall of Famer Charles Haley for a team-leading seven sacks.
The Dothan, Alabama, native attended the University of Alabama, where he transitioned from a tight end to defensive end. He tallied 48 tackles and three sacks as a senior with the Crimson Tide.