Greg Papa Reveals Cancer Diagnosis, Steps Away from KNBR

RADIO ONLINE | Friday, August 1, 2025 | 3:40pm CT

Greg Papa

Greg Papa, longtime Bay Area sports broadcaster and the voice of the San Francisco 49ers, announced today that he has been diagnosed with cancer and is stepping away from his broadcast duties on KNBR in San Francisco and 49ers broadcasts to focus on treatment and recovery.

In a statement released Friday, Papa said, "I want to share some personal news with Bay Area sports fans and my friends and colleagues. I have been diagnosed with cancer and am currently undergoing treatment. As I fully focus on my treatment and work toward a full recovery, I'm stepping away from my broadcasts but look forward to returning soon."

Papa, who co-hosts KNBR's midday show Papa & Silver, added that his co-host Greg Silver and a series of guest hosts will continue the program in his absence. "I know he and his guest co-hosts will keep our listeners entertained and informed - and I'll be among them; I'll be listening!" he said.

Papa has been a fixture in Bay Area sports media for decades. Before teaming with Silver in November 2024, he co-hosted middays on KNBR with John Lund starting in 2019. He previously served as the longtime play-by-play announcer for the Oakland Raiders and has been a prominent voice on KNBR-AM.

Concluding his message with gratitude and optimism, Papa thanked fans for their support and signed off with a trademark rallying cry: "Thanks to everyone for your prayers and good wishes as I begin this fight. Go Niners!"