Eric Heitmann

Eric Heitmann was a professional football center for the San Francisco 49ers, who drafted him in the 7th round of the 2002 NFL Draft.

He was the first rookie to start a game on the 49ers offensive line since 1987. He won the 49er Rookie of the Year award. He started 12 games for the 2002 season and 16 games during the 2004 season. He spent much of the 2003 season injured. In June 2005, he signed a four-year extension.

Heitmann broke his right tibia in the 2006 season. He also had knee surgery and finished the season on the injured reserve. He was awarded the Bobb McKittrick award for his dedication and commitment; an award he received for three consecutive years. He retired from the 49ers in 2011 and ended his career with 119 games played and 114 games started.

Heitmann was born on February 24, 1980, in Katy, Texas. He graduated from Stanford University with a bachelor’s degree in public policy. At Stanford he was voted first team All-American and was a three time All-Pac-10 selection.

He and his wife, Emily, have two daughters.

He is also a gifted musician, having taken piano lessons since the age of six. Four of his pieces hit #1 on the SoundCloud repost charts.