Before the unexpected retirements of Justin Smith and Patrick Willis last offseason – and months away from the abrupt end to Aldon Smith’s tenure with the 49ers – it appeared as if Ahmad Brooks’ career with the organization was winding down.
Brooks earned Pro Bowl recognition after the 2012 and ’13 seasons. But his status was in question after his production slipped to six sacks in 2014. Plus, at the time, his scheduled salary seemed exorbitant.
Brooks turned 33 on Monday. And while his sack total only rose from six in 2014 to 6.5 last season, it’s now difficult to view him as overpaid.