After recently losing two inside linebackers to unexpected retirements, the 49ers are attempting to keep another on the roster long-term.
General manager Trent Baalke said today the team is working to sign inside linebacker Michael Wilhoite to a contract extension. Wilhoite, 28, is an exclusive-rights free agent, meaning he has no ability to negotiate with other teams. Last week, defensive lineman Tony Jerod-Eddie signed his one-year, $660,000 exclusive rights tender, but Wilhoite didn’t sign his.
Today, Baalke explained why: “We’re working on something with him as we speak … He’s kind of in a unique situation. He was kind of caught in a numbers deal.