Former San Francisco 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis surprised many fans by announcing his retirement from the NFL this offseason at the age of 30, but multiple reports say that he is thinking about returning to the 49ers next season.
Willis is still dealing with a toe issue that caused him to miss 10 games of the 2014 season, and it's doubtful he will return unless his toe is 100 percent healthy. However, him debating a potential return is certainly a good sign - and a welcome one for 49ers fans.
San Francisco lost several key players from their 2014 defense as Willis, Justin Smith, and Chris Boreland all retired and they cut star pass rusher Aldon Smith. The 49ers' defense has suffered considerably because of it, moving from one of the league's top units to ranking 28th in total defense this year.
Willis, a seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time first-team All-Pro selection, would immediately give the 49ers their leader and best defensive player back.
San Francisco's next game will be at home against the Seattle Seahawks on Nov. 22.
Bleacher Report's Jason Cole was the first to report on the story.
Follow our San Francisco 49ers news page for all the latest 49ers news!
Back to the San Francisco 49ers Newsfeed