Greg Papa, a broadcaster for the San Francisco 49ers, was hospitalized earlier this month due to advanced heart failure. His case is scheduled to be presented to the UCSF Health Heart Transplant Board on Tuesday for consideration of an immediate heart transplant. Previously, Papa battled leukemia and is now facing heart failure.
The Bay Area radio host was expected to return to broadcasting when the 49ers began their season against the Rams in Australia. However, KNBR terminated Papa's contract in early August, which led to significant backlash from the public due to his ongoing health struggles. He was diagnosed with leukemia in July 2025 and was still recovering from a bone marrow transplant at the time of his termination.
Cumulus Media, the parent company of the radio station, released a statement indicating that they would look for ways to reinstate Papa at KNBR. There was considerable anticipation regarding his return in a part-time capacity for the show “Lunch with Papa,” which was set to air weekdays from noon to 1 p.m., along with weekly guest segments on morning and afternoon shows titled “Niners Updates.” However, these plans are now overshadowed by his current health situation.