The 1976San Francisco 49ers season was their 27th in the National Football League. They began the season with the goal of improving on their previous output of 5-9. There were able to do so, starting the season 6-1; however, after a four game losing streak, they finished 8-6[1] and missed the playoffs.
On April 5, 1976, the 49ers traded for former Heisman Trophy winner Jim Plunkett. The 49ers gave the New England Patriots their first round pick in the 1976 NFL Draft, the Houston Oilers first round pick in the 1976 Draft, the 49ers first and second round picks in the 1977 NFL Draft, and quarterback Tom Owen.[2]