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The 49ers’ on-field, pre-game pep talk is likely a thing of the past with Patrick Willis’ retirement.
Willis tried to take on a verbal leadership role during his 49ers career. But the 49ers this offseason lost two of their other best leaders. Running back Frank Gore continues his career with the Indianapolis Colts, while defensive lineman Justin Smith announced his retirement on Monday.
But Smith said he does not expect the 49ers to experience a huge void in leadership on the defensive side.
“Just right off the bat, you got NaVorro (Bowman) coming back,” Smith said Tuesday on 95.