Keena Turner
A native of Chicago, Keena Turner began his football career at Chicago Vocational High School, home of football legend, Dick Butkus. He attended Purdue University and while there,
Keena was a two-time All Big Ten, All American and Boilermakers’ MVP. In 2006, his alma mater inducted him into the university’s athletic Hall of Fame.
In 1980, Keena was drafted in the second round by the San Francisco 49ers and played outside linebacker with the “Team of the Decade” until his retirement in 1990. His eleven-year
contribution to the team resulted in four Super Bowl wins and a trip to the Pro Bowl. He championed the 49ers to victory as Captain of the 1984 team and was subsequently chosen by
his teammates as the “Len Eshmont Award” recipient for his courageous and inspirational play.
After the NFL, Keena continued his association with the 49ers, working in Player and Community Relations. In 1992, he joined his former coach and mentor, Bill Walsh, at
Stanford University, where he served as an assistant coach until 1995.
Upon leaving Stanford, Keena launched his radio and television career. This fall, Keena will begin his 12th season as the color analyst for 49ers’ preseason games on
KPIX Channel 5, as well as his role as co-host of the 49ers Preview Show (CBS airing Saturday evenings). Keena has held various positions with the 49ers over the past
decade including his current role as Vice President of Football Affairs. In June of 2000, Keena opened a Toyota dealership in Tracy – TRACY TOYOTA – with his partner
and former teammate, Ronnie Lott.
Keena’s dedication to excellence is not limited to the playing field. He has been a constant supporter of The Koret Family House in San Francisco for the past 20
years. In Tracy, California, Keena created a student essay contest for the Middle School system emphasizing the importance of academics. In its thirteenth successful
year, The Keena Turner Boys and Girls Clubs Golf Tournament bringing the total raised to well over $1.3 Million.