Former 49ers Star Who Won Super Bowl LVII with Chiefs Forced to Join Steelers to Support His Ailing Mother, Even Though His Heart Still Belongs to San Francisco
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – October, 2025
With Super Bowl LVII on his résumé and a career on the rise at the Kansas City Chiefs, Marquez Valdes-Scantling just signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers in late October. However, this decision did not come from a simple choice. After a brief stint with the San Francisco 49ers, where he couldn’t play long enough to prove himself, Valdes-Scantling had to make a difficult decision to support his mother, who is facing a serious illness.
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Although deeply regretful for not contributing more to the 49ers, Valdes-Scantling can’t stop thinking about the team. At his introductory press conference with the Steelers, he shared emotionally:
“The 49ers are a great organization. I’m really sorry I couldn’t contribute more to the team. Everything happened too fast, and I couldn’t give enough of what I have. But I’ll always thank them for giving me that opportunity.”
His family situation, especially his mother’s health, was the main reason Valdes-Scantling decided to join the Steelers. His mother is currently battling a serious illness, and he feels he needs to earn more money to take care of her. He shared:
“Mom is the most important person to me. She’s always been there cheering for me, but now it’s time for me to be by her side to take care of her.”
During his short season with the 49ers, Valdes-Scantling didn’t have many opportunities to showcase himself. After being released from injured reserve, he signed with the Steelers, but he can’t forget the love and respect he has for the 49ers. He continued to express admiration for his former teammates and coaches:
“The guys on the team, the coaches—they’re amazing people. I knew I couldn’t stay long-term, but I’ll always remember them with respect. And if one day the 49ers need me back, I won’t hesitate.”
These emotional farewell words have touched Niner Nation, making 49ers fans feel the love Valdes-Scantling has for his former team. Head coach of the Steelers, also spoke about Valdes-Scantling’s team spirit:
“He’s a player with quality, not just athletically but in team spirit. What he did with the 49ers is very respectable.”
Even though Valdes-Scantling has now joined the Steelers, in his heart, the 49ers will always hold a special place. His story is not just about a player—it’s about love for the team and respect for those who helped him grow in his career.
For 49ers fans, Valdes-Scantling’s farewell words make them feel even more the spirit of unity, love for the team—and the hope that one day, he will return when the 49ers need him most.
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