SANTA CLARA CA — Following his second battle with cancer in the last three years, San Francisco 49ers Johnny Holland, linebackers coach, is back in his element. He’s on the football field doing what he loves and enjoying every moment of it.
Holland, who will be entering his 31st season as a player or coach in the league, left the 49ers in September of the last season to begin treatment for multiple myeloma. He is also a local Stanford Medical Center patient. Holland was absent from the team in the past due to multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells. Holland was diagnosed in 2019.
Holland, 57 years old, was able at points to be with the team in the 2021 seasons, but he returned to regular coaching duties in the spring.
Holland stated that he feels great and that he has remission from cancer. This allowed Holland to coach the 49ers’ linebackers during this training camp.
Holland stated, “When you aren’t around something, it is hard to miss it a lot.” Holland said, “Just to be full-time, every time that I step out there it makes me appreciate it even more. It’s exciting, enjoyable and fun to coach the guys again.
Holland stated that he missed the camaraderie of his job during his time away. Holland said he misses the opportunity to coach players, the atmosphere of team building towards a common goal, and even mundane tasks like training camp practices.
It was not just what Holland missed, but what he was doing instead. This gave Holland a greater perspective. Holland described being away from his team as a trial run for retirement. It wasn’t for Holland, though.
Holland stated that “I can’t picture not being around football and being involved” “And that’s been my entire life (I’ve) been involved in football. It’s something you look forward every year. It’s been a part of my medication to be involved in the game. Having something to look forward to and something to do has been very helpful.”
Holland explained that multiple myeloma does not have a cure and that he has a comprehensive treatment plan in place to ensure his cancer remains under control. Holland called it a clinical trial, but he said that the results have been encouraging and allowed him to continue working despite occasional protestations from coaches and players about how much he is working.
Holland is an immunocompromised person and must be extra cautious about COVID-19. He said that players were aware of the fact and his wife has supported him in doing what they can to protect themselves.
Holland stated, “I have to understand that health is the first priority.” “I love my work and what I do, but I need to get treatment. This is not possible if your health isn’t good enough. I have come to terms with the fact that I must listen to my doctors and do what they tell me. It’s really made a big difference in my life. Although you may feel you can do anything as a former player or coach, there is a point when you need to pay attention to the experts.
Holland’s return to the Niners linebacker area has been more than a welcome sight. Holland’s absence was felt by all franchise members, who made sure Holland was always in their thoughts.
Last August, all members of the organization wore Tshirts that read “I.G.Y.B.” The back has Holland’s initials, while Holland’s is just above it. The letters signify “I Got Your Back”, which has been a team motto since Kyle Shanahan’s arrival in 2017 and John Lynch, the general manager. It is still worn by various players and coaches throughout this camp.
Shanahan wore special shoes to support Holland and the ongoing research for multiple myeloma cures, when the NFL held its annual “My Cause, My Cleats”, campaign in October.
#49ers Coach Kyle Shanahan participates in “My Cause, My Cleats”, a weekend-long event that supports assistant coach Johnny Holland’s fight with multiple myeloma. His cause is The Institute for Myeloma and Bone Cancer Research. pic.twitter.com/SQhSKtFdiz
— Nick Wagoner (@nwagoner) December 3, 2021
According to linebacker Fred WarnerHolland’s recent return has brought a little extra energy to his position group.
Warner stated, “It’s been everything.” That’s our guy. He is the best linebacker coaching in the league. This will allow us to perform at our best.
Holland stated that this type of support is crucial in Holland’s ability to get back on the field, where he belongs.
Holland said, “That is what keeps me going.” “Kyle, the players and other coaches have been exceptional. This is what keeps me motivated and motivated to continue my work. The support I have received has been amazing.”