The San Francisco 49ers have signed starting ILB Patrick Willis to a
five-year contract extension through the 2016 season. The 49ers originally
selected Willis with the 11th overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft.
According to FoxSports.com's Jay Glazer, it's a five-year, $50
million deal. A source said Willis will receive $29 million in guaranteed money.
The final year of Willis' rookie contract voided (2012) because he met minimum
playing time requirements in just one season, so it was actually set to expire
after the 2011.
“I am very proud of what Pat has been able to accomplish,” said head coach
Mike Singletary. “He is the epitome of what a 49er is all about. Pat has had
to overcome a lot in his life and has maintained the ability to stay focused on
his goals. Before it is all said and done, he may go down as one of the best to
play the position. I am thankful that our organization has realized Pat is one
of the core pieces to this puzzle, and I am excited for our community, fans,
coaches and players, that we will have Pat here for a very long time.”
The heart and soul of the 49ers defense, Willis (6-1, 240) is a two-time
first-team All-Pro and has been one of the league’s most dominant linebackers
since he was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, in 2007. Since that time,
he has become one of the surest tacklers in the NFL, leading all players with
467 tackles (9.7 per game), according to league rankings.
Willis has not missed a game during his professional career, starting 48
consecutive contests and leading the 49ers in tackles in each of his three NFL
seasons. He has registered nine sacks, four interceptions, six forced fumbles,
two fumble recoveries, 29 passes defensed and 584 tackles, according to 49ers
coaching records. A demon in pass coverage, Willis leads all NFL linebackers
with 18 passes defensed, since 2008.
By earning the starting nod on the 2010 NFC Pro Bowl squad, Willis became the
first 49er since S Ronnie Lott to be named to the Pro Bowl in each of the first
three years of his career. After setting career marks with three interceptions,
three forced fumbles and four sacks, last season, Willis was named the 2009
Butkus Award recipient, as professional football’s top linebacker. He was also
selected the NFL Alumni Linebacker of the Year for the second time in his
career.
The 25-year-old native of Bruceton, TN, starred collegiately at the University
of Mississippi where he won the 2006 Butkus and Jack Lambert Awards as the
nation’s top linebacker. A two-time All-America selection (2005-2006), Willis
was also named the 2006 SEC Defensive Player of the Year.
For more on the 49ers, check out
SF Illustrated.
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