Jesse Sapolu was one of six San Francisco 49ers to win four Super Bowl rings between 1981 and 1994, but the only one of the six to win his 5th ring in Super Bowl XXIX against the San Diego Chargers. The other five players (Joe Montana, Keena Turner, Eric Wright, Mike Wilson, and Ronnie Lott) all won their rings in Super Bowls XVI, XIX, XXIII and XXIV.

Sapolu was a member of the famed 1983 draft class, although a tad bit later than the famed six quarterbacks taken in Round 1–Sapolu was taken in the 11th round (289th overall) by the 49ers, in addition to being drafted 199th overall (17th round) by the Oakland Invaders of the USFL. He played from 1983 to 1997, and made two Pro Bowls later in his career in 1994 and 1995.

Since retiring, he has been a high school offensive line coach, and has been instrumental in establishing the Polynesian Pro Football Hall of Fame.