BREAKING: Netflix Releases “The Underdog,” a Highly Anticipated Documentary About San Francisco 49ers Legend Jerry Rice, Slated for Release on August 7, 2025

In a thrilling announcement for football fans and sports enthusiasts alike, Netflix has unveiled “The Underdog,” a highly anticipated documentary chronicling the extraordinary life and career of San Francisco 49ers legend Jerry Rice. Set to premiere on August 7, 2025, the six-part series promises an intimate, unfiltered look at the journey of the NFL’s greatest wide receiver, from his humble beginnings in Crawford, Mississippi, to his record-shattering 20-year career and enduring legacy. Directed by award-winning filmmaker Gabe Polsky, known for 2014’s acclaimed “Red Army,” and produced by NFL Films and Skydance Sports, “The Underdog” is poised to captivate audiences with exclusive footage, star-studded interviews, and a deep dive into the work ethic that made Rice the “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time).

A Journey from Underdog to Icon

Jerry Rice, born October 13, 1962, is widely regarded as the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, with a career that includes three Super Bowl titles, 13 Pro Bowl selections, and 36 NFL records, including career receptions (1,549), receiving yards (22,895), and touchdowns (208), per Pro Football Hall of Fame. Drafted by the 49ers in the first round (16th overall) of the 1985 NFL Draft, Rice transformed from a relatively unknown prospect out of Mississippi Valley State University into a cornerstone of San Francisco’s dynasty in the 1980s and 1990s, per Britannica.

“The Underdog” explores Rice’s improbable rise, beginning with his childhood as the son of a brick mason in Crawford, Mississippi, where he developed his legendary hands catching bricks thrown by his brothers, per Britannica. Denied a chance to play football in high school by his mother, who deemed the sport “too rough,” Rice didn’t join the team until his sophomore year at B.L. Moor High School, per ClutchPoints. At Mississippi Valley State, a historically Black college, he shattered NCAA Division I-AA records, including 24 receptions in a single game, earning the nickname “World” for his ability to catch any ball, per Jerry Rice Official Site.

Despite his college dominance, Rice faced skepticism from NFL scouts due to a reported 40-yard dash time of 4.71 seconds, considered slow for a wide receiver, per Wikipedia. In a 2022 Fox News Digital interview, Rice admitted, “I never thought I was going to get drafted,” playing “head games” to avoid disappointment. However, 49ers coach Bill Walsh saw a game-changer, trading up to draft Rice, a move that reshaped the franchise, per 49ers Webzone.

The Documentary’s Scope and Star Power

“The Underdog” traces Rice’s NFL journey, from a modest rookie season in 1985 to his breakout in 1986, when he led the league with 1,570 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, per Pro Football Reference. The series highlights his record-setting 1987 season, with 22 touchdown receptions in a strike-shortened 12-game schedule, and his Super Bowl MVP performance in 1988 (Super Bowl XXIII), where he caught 11 passes for 215 yards, per 49ers Webzone. Exclusive NFL Films footage, including mic’d-up moments and behind-the-scenes clips from San Francisco’s Super Bowl runs in 1988, 1989, and 1994, brings these milestones to life, per 49ers.com.

The documentary features interviews with 49ers icons, including Joe Montana, who describes Rice’s chemistry with him as “telepathic,” and Steve Young, who credits Rice for elevating his game, per Wikipedia. Other interviewees include tight end George Kittle, who praises Rice’s work ethic, and linebacker Fred Warner, who calls him “the blueprint for greatness,” inspired by Netflix’s “The Underdog” announcement for Brock Purdy. NFL legends like Kurt Warner and Tom Brady, an executive producer and lifelong 49ers fan, offer historical context, while former coach Bill Walsh, via archival footage, explains his vision for Rice in the West Coast offense, per 49ers.com.

Rice’s personal life is a focal point, with his wife Jackie and children Jaqui, Jerry Jr., and Brenden sharing stories of his relentless drive. The series delves into “The Hill,” Rice’s grueling workout routine that he continued post-retirement, symbolizing his fear of failure, per Niner Noise. “Jerry was never the most gifted physically, but his work ethic was unmatched,” says former owner Eddie DeBartolo Jr., who presented Rice’s 2010 Hall of Fame induction, per Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Drama and Redemption

“The Underdog” doesn’t shy away from challenges, including Rice’s 2001 release from the 49ers, a move he found painful after Terrell Owens’ record-breaking 20-catch game overshadowed his final home game, per 49ers Webzone. Rice’s resilience shines through his successful stints with the Oakland Raiders, where he reached Super Bowl XXXVII, and brief time with the Seattle Seahawks before retiring as a 49er in 2006, per IMDb. The documentary also addresses his post-NFL ventures, including his role as an ESPN analyst, his G.O.A.T. Fuel energy drink brand, and his work with the 49ers Foundation, per Jerry Rice Official Site.

A poignant episode explores Rice’s 1997 knee injury, a torn ACL that sidelined him for the first time, and his remarkable recovery to post 11 straight 1,000-yard seasons, per 49ers Webzone. “That injury made me question everything,” Rice reflects in a trailer, “but it also showed me I could come back stronger.”

Cultural Impact and Anticipation

The August 7, 2025, release, timed with the NFL preseason, positions “The Underdog” to capitalize on football fever. Following Netflix’s success with “Quarterback” and “Receiver,” featuring 49ers stars like George Kittle and Deebo Samuel, the series is expected to draw a wide audience, per Netflix Tudum. Social media buzz is already intense, with X posts like, “Jerry Rice’s ‘The Underdog’ on Netflix? Can’t wait to see the GOAT’s story!” and “From Mississippi Valley to 3 Super Bowls, Rice’s doc is gonna be epic.”

The documentary’s focus on Rice’s HBCU roots at Mississippi Valley State resonates with fans, highlighting his underdog journey from a small school to NFL immortality, per ClutchPoints. Director Gabe Polsky, who featured Rice in 2018’s “In Search of Greatness,” emphasizes creativity and grit, drawing parallels with icons like Wayne Gretzky and Pelé, per SF Chronicle.

A Legacy Unveiled

“The Underdog” is more than a sports documentary—it’s a testament to Jerry Rice’s unparalleled work ethic, resilience, and impact on the NFL. As the 49ers’ faithful and football fans count down to August 7, 2025, Netflix is set to deliver a masterclass in storytelling, blending rare footage, heartfelt interviews, and the saga of a man who turned doubt into greatness. With Rice’s records still standing and his influence felt in every 49ers game, “The Underdog” promises to inspire a new generation while honoring the legacy of the NFL’s greatest player.