John Kahler (2008) - Hall of Fame - Long Beach State University Athletics

John Kahler

Induction:
2008

John Kahler was one of the outstanding football players in 49er history. A three-year letterwinner (1969-71), Kahler was a standout on the defensive line. He was a two-time first team All-Pacific Coast Athletic Association selection (1970 & 1971) and after his senior season he was named the the Kodak All-America Coaches' College Division second team. He was drafted in the 1972 NFL Draft by the Kansas City Chiefs in the sixth round. Kahler led the 49ers to a 9-2-1 mark in 1970 and a first place finish in the PCAA. The 49ers played in their only bowl game in school history in the 1970 campaign, a 24-24 tie to Louisville in the Pasadena Bowl, a game which was played in the Rose Bowl. The 49ers finished second in the conference in 1970 in total defense, anchored by Kahler on the defensive line. In 1971 the 49ers were 8-4 and finished first in the PCAA at 5-1, but the league's council selected 4-1 San Jose State to represent the league at the 1971 Pasadena Bowl. Including an 8-3 mark in 1969, Kahler's sophomore season, the 49ers were 25-9-1 (.735) during his three years, the most wins over a three-year span in school history. He played in the East-West All-Star Game as a senior, leading the West to victory and finishing second to DB Willie Buchanon for Defensive Player of the Game honors. Kahler played one year at Long Beach City College before coming to the 49ers.